Unveiling Berlín: El Salvador's Hidden Bitcoin Gem in the Mountains

Tucked away in the mountains of El Salvador, approximately two hours from the capital, lies the vibrant town of Berlín. With a population of around 20,000, this mid-sized city is home to one of the world's largest Bitcoin circular economies. As you wander through its streets, you'll find an array of local businesses, from fruit vendors to motorcycle repair shops, all accepting bitcoin payments. For those living in Berlín, it's possible to cover almost all expenses using cryptocurrency. The adoption of Bitcoin isn't solely driven by attracting foreign visitors, although that dynamic does exist. Unlike El Zonte, known as Bitcoin Beach, which has become a tourism hotspot, Berlín remains relatively under the radar, with a small expat community of around 14 to 20 individuals. What sets Berlín apart is the growing number of Salvadorans using Bitcoin for everyday purchases, a trend that has significant implications. In 2021, when President Nayib Bukele made Bitcoin legal tender, there were high expectations that Salvadorans would quickly adopt the cryptocurrency. However, the reality was different, with more than 70% of the population lacking access to banking services. The introduction of the government-backed Chivo wallet was intended to facilitate the use of Bitcoin, but it was met with skepticism. Fast forward to 2023, and a survey by the Central American University revealed that 88% of Salvadorans hadn't used Bitcoin. Critics argued that El Salvador's Bitcoin experiment had failed. Yet, Berlín tells a different story. Nestled in the mountains, over 1,000 meters above sea level, this idyllic town is home to a thriving Bitcoin community. The Bitcoin Community Center, located in the heart of the town, serves as a social hub, offering a range of activities, including Bitcoin 101 classes, tech training, and language lessons. Two large maps on display highlight the numerous businesses that accept Bitcoin payments, with over 150 establishments on board, representing around 25% of the town's total businesses. The pace of adoption is accelerating, with 3-5 new businesses joining the initiative every week. The team behind the project, including Pierre Bonbury, Patricia Rosales, and Gerardo Linares, has worked tirelessly to promote Bitcoin and provide support to local businesses. Their efforts have paid off, with many Salvadorans now using Bitcoin for their daily transactions. The story of Berlín's Bitcoin adoption is one of community-driven initiative, with locals taking the lead in promoting the use of cryptocurrency. As one resident noted, 'Bitcoin City already exists. It's called Berlín.' This sentiment reflects the town's embracing of Bitcoin as a means of empowerment, allowing individuals to transact without the need for intermediaries. Berlín's history is marked by resilience and community spirit, having survived the Salvadoran Civil War and resisted the influence of violent gangs. The town's strong social bonds have created a safe and welcoming environment, attracting visitors from around the world. As the town continues to grow and develop, its Bitcoin initiative remains at the forefront, a testament to the power of community-driven innovation. The tech-savvy expat community in Berlín, often referred to as 'tech hippies,' has played a significant role in promoting the use of Bitcoin. With their focus on community values and relationships, they have helped create a unique culture that sets Berlín apart from other crypto spaces. As one expat noted, 'Money means nothing' in Berlín, where relationships and community ties are valued above all else. The story of Berlín serves as a beacon of hope for the potential of Bitcoin to empower communities and drive positive change. As the world watches the development of this small town in El Salvador, one thing is clear: Berlín is a shining example of what can be achieved when community spirit and innovation come together.