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Casa de la Moneda
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Historical site
The Casa Nacional de la Moneda in Potosí is one of the most significant monuments of Spanish colonial architecture in South America. The current building was constructed between 1759 and 1773, replacing a smaller 16th-century mint. Due to the silver wealth of Cerro Rico, Potosí was the economic heart of the Spanish Empire, and this facility was where silver was transformed into the famous 'Real de a ocho' coins. The building impresses with its massive walls, grand courtyards, and original wooden minting machines that were once powered by mules. A striking landmark is the 'Mascarón,' a laughing face in the first courtyard whose origin remains a mystery to this day. Today, the structure serves as a museum and national archive, housing invaluable treasures of Bolivian history, art, and numismatics.
- Location: Bolivia
- Top sights: Carroza · Acueducto de la Ribera de los Ingenios · Iglesia Cristiana Evangelica Calle Chuquisaca
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 8 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 3 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 103 | 93 | 58 | 20 | 4 | 17 | 3 | 3 | 12 | 32 | 29 | 82 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Casa de la Moneda in Potosí is a historic mint building and museum open to the public. You can see the old coin presses and exhibits on colonial silver production.
Typical hours
The museum is typically open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM. It is usually closed on Mondays, with possible variations on holidays.
Photography
Photography is allowed in most areas without flash. In some halls with particularly sensitive exhibits, photography may be entirely prohibited.
Time needed
Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours for a thorough tour of the museum. The guided tour typically lasts about 1 hour, after which you can explore independently.
Combine with
Potosí is famous for Cerro Rico and mine tours. Combine the museum visit with a guided tour into an active silver mine for a full experience.
Getting there
The museum is in the historic center of Potosí, walkable from most accommodations. Potosí is reachable by bus from Sucre or La Paz.
Insider tip
Due to the altitude over 4000 meters, it is important to acclimatize before visiting. Take a guided tour to understand the minting process in detail.
Geography
Facts
- Construction of the current building spanned from 1759 to 1773.
- The facility covers an area of over 15,000 square meters.
- Original wooden minting machines from Spain are still preserved on-site.
- The famous Mascarón face was added to the courtyard in 1865.
- The construction costs at the time exceeded 1.1 million pesos.
- The mint produced coins that circulated throughout the entire Spanish Empire.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Casa de la Moneda (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Do you need to book a guided tour?
Yes, visits are only possible as part of a guided tour at fixed times.
Is photography allowed inside?
You have to pay an additional fee to get a photo permit.
What is the most famous exhibit?
The old wooden coin minting machines and the vast collection of silver coins.
How long does a guided tour take?
You should plan about 2 hours for the comprehensive tour of the museum.
Why is there a laughing mask at the entrance?
The 'Mascarón' was added in the 19th century; its exact meaning is debated.
Casa de la Moneda: where is it located?
Casa de la Moneda is located in Bolivia.
Casa de la Moneda: what is there to see?
Highlights include Carroza, Acueducto de la Ribera de los Ingenios, Iglesia Cristiana Evangelica Calle Chuquisaca.
Casa de la Moneda: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Oct, Nov.
Casa de la Moneda: why is it worth visiting?
The Casa Nacional de la Moneda in Potosí is one of the most significant monuments of Spanish colonial architecture in South America.
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