Culture of La Paz. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

La Paz is sure to please fans of tours with a variety of interesting historical buildings and museums. On the main town square, they will find the Catedral Basilica Menor de Nuestra Senora de la Paz - the city's most beautiful architectural monument. The exterior of the building dating back to 1865 harmoniously combines elements of neo-classicism and baroque. The very first cathedral was built on the site of the present one in the 17th century and later destroyed after the fall of the clergy.

Family holidays with kids in La Paz. How to entertain your child, things to show to children.

La Paz is considered an ideal resort for fans of active recreation. Travelers with children will also not be bored here. They should definitely visit the Zoologico Municipal Vesty Pacos de …

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The erection of the new cathedral began in 1835, and its reconstruction was completed only by 1925. The cathedral features not only a spectacular appearance but also unique decoration. Incredibly beautiful marble and precious wood were brought for its decoration from many European countries, almost all the finishing elements have remained intact. Beautiful old icons and other religious relics are stored within the walls of the cathedral, its main decoration is a luxurious 19th-century altar.

The starting point of most sightseeing tours is the central city square - Plaza Murillo. It is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, most of which were built during the period of colonization. Some government buildings near the square are available for tours. The very first square was built on this place in the middle of the 16th century. It served as the venue for the most important social events and holidays. The square got its current name in 1902, it was named in honor of Pedro Murillo - one of the Bolivian revolutionary leaders. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Cuisine of La Paz for gourmet with top restaurants and cafe

La Paz is a very popular destination among gastronomic tourists. The city has many restaurants and cafes of various levels, while some of the most popular local dishes can be enjoyed at …

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Near the square is a majestic building of the Legislative Palace of Bolivia, which is presently occupied by the state parliament. The building's main characteristic is a unique architectural style combining Corinthian and classical styles. The facade of the palace is adorned with luxurious pilasters and columns. The main decoration of the building is a large bronze dome.

A Jesuit monastery was located on the site of the building at the beginning of the 16th century. Later its building was converted into a university. At the beginning of the 20th century, the old building was destroyed and a new one was erected instead. The official opening of the Legislative Palace took place in 1905. Not so long ago, the historic building has undergone major reconstruction. Guided tours are organized here on certain days.

Authentic traditions, festivals and lifestyle of La Paz inhabitants

La Paz is not by chance considered the cultural center of Bolivia. The city is characterized by many interesting traditions and customs. La Paz is called a city of contrasts following modern …

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In the vicinity of La Paz, there are several interesting archaeological areas, the most visited one is Inkataca. Here, researchers discovered the ruins of an old fortress that was built in this place more than a thousand years ago. Archaeologists found its ruins quite recently, in 2012. Research has been continuously conducted in the archaeological area since then. A significant part of the ancient structures was restored and presented to the public. It is noteworthy that there is very little written record of the ancient fortress. Researchers never managed to find out exactly who founded it and at what time.

One of the oldest religious monuments preserved in the city is the Basilica of San Francisco. The construction of the church began in 1548 and lasted more than 50 years until heavy snowfall fell on the country. It was so long that it was decided to freeze the erection of the church, which was renewed only 170 years later. Now it is an amazing combination of traditional Bolivian and classical Catholic art. The building's distinguishing characteristic is a special decoration of its facade. It is adorned with interesting sculptural compositions depicting fantastic dragons, birds, and snakes. The old basilica's roof is equipped with an observation deck, which offers a wonderful view of the city.

Your active city break in La Paz. Attractions, recreation and entertainment - best places to spend your day and night here

One of the main entertainments for visitors to La Paz is exploring the region's amazing natural attractions. Of special interest are excursions to Poop Lake, one of the highest-attitude salt …

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A special attraction is the historic street Calle Jaen, one of the favorite places to walk among tourists. Picturesque colonial buildings with facades painted in all the colors of the rainbow have been preserved on this narrow street paved with cobblestones. Most of the houses that can be seen on the street today were built in the 16th century. Many historic buildings today house stores and souvenir shops, here you can visit craft workshops and relax in cozy restaurants.

The most popular museums are located on the main historical street of the city. The Museo Costumbrista introduces visitors to the history of the state's development. Once Bolivia was a major supplier of silver, a large part of the exposition presented in the museum is devoted to this significant historical period. One of the smaller buildings is occupied by the Museo Murillo. One of the country's main revolutionaries who later led the movement for independence lived in this house.

In the section below, you can get one of our excursion, activities or city discovery tours over La Paz and surroundings. Our website offers 10-30% lower ticket prices, when compared to the offline purchase on the spot.

City tours, excursions and tickets in La Paz and surroundings

This guide to cultural sights La Paz is protected by the copyright law. You can re-publish this content with mandatory attribution: direct and active hyperlink to www.orangesmile.com.

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Reference information

Map of all palaces

Public palaces near La Paz
♥ Palace 'Palacio Quemado' La Paz, 1.8 km from the center. On the map Show on the map

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Map of all churches

Cathedrals and basilicas near La Paz
♥ Basílica María Auxiliadora, La Paz, 2 km from the center. On the map Show on the map

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♥ Catedral Nuestra Señora de Luján, La Paz, 7.5 km from the center. On the map Show on the map

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♥ Catedral de San Pedro y San Pablo, Coroico, 56.9 km from the center. On the map Show on the map

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Iconic cultural sights of Bolivia

Oruro is a small town. The country's grandest carnival takes place here every year in early spring. Representatives of many indigenous peoples in the most incredible costumes come here. Bright colors and a variety of clothes, loud music and an incredible sense of celebration amaze inexperienced viewers. Several hotels are built for tourists here. The restoration of city buildings built in the past centuries has also been carried out. Souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes – everything looks very cozy and colorful. The second attraction of this modest town is the snow-white statue of the Virgin Mary. It was installed in 2013. Its height is 45 meters. It is installed on an elevation. Her eyes are fixed on the town. … Open

Culture of La Paz. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

City tours, excursions and tickets in La Paz and surroundings

Iconic cultural sights of Bolivia

Photogallery of cultural heritage of La Paz

Landmarks of culture on La Paz map: art-galleries, monuments, palaces, etc

Excursions over cultural sights of neighbours of La Paz