Machacamarca mining district (Colavi mining district)
Potosí, Bolivia
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
The Machacamarca mining district, also known as Colavi, is located in Cornelio Saavedra Province, Potosí, Bolivia, at about 3,555 meters elevation.
It is known for silver, tin, and rare minerals like augelite and phosphophyllite, formed in volcanic dacite rocks.
Mining began in the 16th century and continues today, shaping local culture with festivals and traditions.
The climate is semi-arid and cold, with a high-altitude plateau ecology.
Location and Geography
The Machacamarca mining district lies in the north-eastern part of the Potosí department, bordering Chuquisaca to the northeast, Chayanta to the north, Tomás Frías to the west, and José María Linares to the south and southeast. Its capital, Betanzos, is about 56 miles southwest of Sucre, Bolivia's capital. This high-altitude area, part of the Bolivian Tin Belt, is known for its rich mineral deposits and stunning Andean scenery.
Minerals and Geology
Research suggests the district is rich in silver and tin, with uncommon minerals like augelite and phosphophyllite attracting collectors. These minerals form in veins within volcanic dacite rocks, likely due to hydrothermal processes linked to volcanic activity, offering an unexpected glimpse into the region's geological history.
History and Culture
It seems likely that mining started in the 16th century during Spanish colonial times and has continued, influencing local culture with mining-related festivals and music. The nearby city of Potosí adds to the cultural richness, with its colonial architecture and historical significance.
Climate and Ecology
The evidence leans toward a semi-arid, cold climate, typical of high-altitude plateaus, with vegetation adapted to these conditions, providing a unique ecological backdrop to the mining activities.