Coroico facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Coroico
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 Coroico
Location in Bolivia
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| Country |  Bolivia |
| Department | La Paz Department |
| Province | Nor Yungas Province |
| Elevation | 1,525 m (5,003 ft) |
| Population
(2001 census)
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| • City | 12,237 |
| • Urban | 2,197 |
| • Rural | 10,040 |
| Time zone | UTC-4 (BOT) |
Coroico is a town in Nor Yungas Province, in the La Paz Department of western Bolivia. It is known for its beautiful green mountains and stunning views.
Contents
History of Coroico
Coroico is a town with a rich history. The first settlement was called Coroico Viejo. It was built near a river named Quri Wayq'u. This name comes from the Quechua language, where 'quri' means gold and 'wayq'u' means valley. So, it was a 'Gold Valley'!
Early Settlers and Challenges
The first settlers came to this area to mine for gold. However, they faced many attacks from local Native groups. This made them look for a safer place to live. In the early 1700s, they found the spot where Coroico is today.
One day, a big lightning storm from Mount Uchumachi forced them into a cave. This cave still exists under the main church in Coroico's town square. The town faced more attacks later, especially during Bolivia's fight for independence.
A Famous Battle
During the Bolivian War of Independence, about 5,000 Aymara people attacked Coroico. At that time, only about 500 people lived in the town. Even with fewer people, the town fought bravely and made the Aymaras retreat.
To remember this important victory, the people of Coroico celebrate the Fiesta of the Virgin every year on October 20.
Becoming a Regional Center
In 1899, Coroico became the capital of the North-Yungas region. This made it a very important place for politics and business. The area around Coroico is known for producing wood, fruits, and a traditional crop called coca.
In 1958, Coroico became a special religious center for the Roman Catholic Church. It was later made a full diocese in 1983.
Changes in Land Ownership
From the mid-1700s, a few powerful families, called hacienderos, owned most of the land. This changed in the mid-1950s after a revolution. The land was then divided between the government and local people.
Today, most people in Coroico are of Aymara or mixed heritage (Mestizo). The town is a busy market where products from La Paz and nearby areas are sold.
The Famous "Death Road"
A new highway was opened in 2006, connecting La Paz to Coroico. The old road, known as the Yungas Road, is now mostly used by bikers. This old road is also famously called the "death road" because it was very dangerous.
Education in Coroico
Coroico is also home to the Unidad Académica Campesina-Carmen Pampa (UAC-Carmen Pampa). This is a campus of the Catholic University of Bolivia. It was started in 1993 and offers college degrees in subjects like farming, animal care, nursing, education, and ecotourism.
See also
In Spanish: Coroico para niños
Images for kids
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An Afro-Bolivian woman in traditional clothing in Coroico.
