Cerro Rico From Potosi

Cerro Rico (15,719 feet) translates to "rich mountain" seen from the town of Potosi. At one time the mines of this peak produced 75% of the world's silver. Furthermore, it is estimated that 8 million miners have died inside since silver was discovered. That figure does not include miners who have died from silicosis related illness. For this reason, the people call Cerro Rico "The mountain that eats men alive". Photographed December 29, 2010.