In 1542 a group of Spanish colonizers settled in the Kjocha-Pampa Valley. Ten years later, on August 2nd, 1571, by orders of viceroy Toledo the new city was founded under the name of Villa de Oropeza in honor of the viceroy whose title was Count of Oropeza. Three years later, on January 1st, 1574 the nominal foundation was made by Sebastián Barba de Padilla under orders of Viceroy Toledo. The new city was established along the shores of the Rocha River. From the early days of its existence, the valley showed hints of its natural wealth. At the height of Potosí's silver boom, thanks to its wheat and corn production as well as its cattle abundance, the valley became the source of food for the miners in Potosí as well as for other nearby regions.

When Potosí's boom declined in the early 18th century, so did the demand for Cochabamba's products. By the mid-19th century, however, the economic crisis faded away and the city gained back its position as the nation's granary. Currently, Cochabamba is a progressive and economically active city.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS IN COCHABAMBA

El Cristo de la Concordia: Immense statue of Jesus Christ. Great overview of the city is offered from the top of the monument.

La Coronilla: This hill depicts a monument dedicated to courageous women who defended the city from the Spanish forces in 1812, during the struggles for independence.

Portales Palace: Located in the zone of Queru-Queru, this building provides evidence of the great wealth of tin baron Simón I. Patiño. Most of the material used to build the house was imported. Construction works started in 1915 and were completed by 1927. Today this beautiful place serves as art museum and cultural center.

The Cathedral: Located in the '14 de Setiembre' Square, was built in 1571. It houses original frescos and paintings.

Archaeological Museum: Exhibits artifacts dating from ancient times as well as from the colonial period.

Casa de la Cultura: Exhibits discoveries from a pre-Inca burial site. Also displays art works and reading material.