Visigsa is an indigenous agricultural and pastoral community of approximately 700 residents, who are descendants of the original inhabitants of the archaeological site. Residents cultivate corn, potatoes, fruit and other crops, in addition to raising llamas and alpacas.
Immensely rich in culture but lacking resources, Visigsa is located two hours southwest of Potosί in the municipality of Tomave, on the main highway to Uyuni. Its Quechua-speaking residents adhere to traditional practices in democratically electing their leaders and engaging in communal labor.
Women have a strong voice and leadership in the community, something that is further accentuated by the fact that many of the men emigrate to find work to support their families. Reflecting this, the Casa Ancestral is largely administered by women from the community, who also took an active role in its construction.
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