Cotagaita and Cintis: Patrimonialize the Spirit of the Place?

Abstract

This article research and reveals the “genius loci” or spirit of the place of the Cotagaita river valley and Cintis valley, Department of Potosí and Chiquisaca, Bolivia, especially concerning the viticultural activity that takes place in it. Fundamental aspects of the “know-how” and customs of its winegrowers are described, which implement management tending to conserve their activity sustainably, particularly by cultivating the vines in living tutors of molle trees (Schinus molle L.) and chañar (Geoffroea decorticans). We ask about the production conditions of these valleys, what are the particular physical characteristics that challenge winemaking work and what are the cultural adaptations that have resulted from this, as well as its historical depth and its connection with other viticultural practices in the world, focused in cultivation and conduction systems. The analysis uses as a source a study stay of Philippo Pszczólkowski professor in Bolivia between the years 2008-2009 and combines agronomic and historical methodologies.