Plizio Visual Lab
Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
The Cathedral of Our Lady of La Paz is a majestic basilica located directly on Plaza Murillo, the political center of Bolivia. Its construction began in 1835 under the leadership of Marshal Andrés de Santa Cruz, but its final completion and inauguration did not occur until 1925, coinciding with the centenary of the Republic. The building is an outstanding example of Neoclassical architecture with strong Italian influences, reflected in its massive columns and austere facade. Inside, the cathedral impresses with its vastness, high vaults, and ornate stained glass windows depicting religious scenes. The main altar is crafted from Carrara marble, and the massive bronze doors at the entrance are another highlight. The cathedral serves not only as the seat of the Archdiocese of La Paz but is also a place of great symbolic importance where major state and religious ceremonies are held.
- Location: Bolivia
- Top sights: Museo Costumbrista de La Paz Alcalde Juan de Vargas · FEPPA San Calixto · Museo Nacional de Etnografia y Folklore
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 9 | 9 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| Rain mm | 136 | 114 | 79 | 35 | 13 | 9 | 16 | 22 | 24 | 48 | 44 | 107 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace is usually open for visitors, the interior with its magnificent dome is accessible. Entry is typically free.
Typical hours
Opening hours follow services; usually open from morning to early evening. On holidays, access may be restricted.
Photography
Photography inside is usually allowed without flash, the dome and steep stairs are popular subjects. Please refrain from flash during services.
Time needed
A visit typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour to explore the neoclassical architecture. Climbing the dome may require extra time.
Combine with
Combine the cathedral with Plaza Murillo and the government palace. The Museo Nacional de Arte is also nearby.
Getting there
The cathedral is on Plaza Murillo in central La Paz, very central and walkable. The nearby Teleférico station has an alternative way to arrive.
Insider tip
Visit the cathedral in the morning when light illuminates the dome well. Be aware of political demonstrations on Plaza Murillo.
Geography
Facts
- Construction lasted nearly 90 years, from 1835 to 1925.
- The main altar is made of imported Italian Carrara marble.
- It houses the remains of the historic leader Andrés de Santa Cruz.
- The architectural style is strictly Neoclassical with Italian influence.
- The massive bronze entrance doors were cast in Italy.
- The cathedral is the primary religious building on Plaza Murillo.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the cathedral located?
It is located in Plaza Murillo in La Paz.
What is the architectural style?
It is a neoclassical building with Italian influences.
When is it open?
Usually during mass times and in the morning until about 12 PM.
Is there an entry fee?
Visiting the main church area is free.
What is worth seeing inside?
The stained glass windows and monumental architecture are impressive.
Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz: where is it located?
Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz is located in Bolivia.
Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museo Costumbrista de La Paz Alcalde Juan de Vargas, FEPPA San Calixto, Museo Nacional de Etnografia y Folklore.
Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Nov.
Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz: why is it worth visiting?
The Cathedral of Our Lady of La Paz is a majestic basilica located directly on Plaza Murillo, the political center of Bolivia.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in South America
More places in Bolivia →
History & landmarks
Plaza Murillo
The central square of La Paz and the historical heart of Bolivian politics and government.
Obelisco de La Paz
A historic monument in the middle of La Paz's traffic center, serving as an important landmark in the city.
Basílica de San Francisco
Exquisite Catholic basilica in La Paz showcasing a unique blend of Baroque and indigenous art.
Mercado de las Brujas
The fascinating Witches' Market in La Paz is full of traditional remedies, amulets, and spiritual offerings for Pachamama.
Mirador Killi Killi
A strategically located viewpoint on a hill that offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of La Paz and Mount Illimani.
Estación Central Mi Teleférico
The main station of the spectacular cable car network in La Paz, which was formerly the city's old central train station.
Monumento a Eduardo Abaroa
A monument on the plaza of the same name in La Paz, dedicated to the Bolivian national hero Eduardo Abaroa from the War of the Pacific.
Mirador Laikakota
A popular park and viewpoint in the Parque Urbano Central, offering excellent views of the low-lying part of La Paz.
Nature
More places
Palacio Quemado
The historic presidential residence in La Paz, named after a fire during an 1875 uprising.
Cathedral of La Paz
An imposing neoclassical cathedral on the Plaza Murillo, whose construction spanned more than a century.
Basilica of San Francisco
A monumental Catholic church in the heart of La Paz, known for its richly decorated stone facade in the Andean Baroque style.
Vesty Pakos Zoo
The highest altitude zoo in the world, located in La Paz, focusing on the rescue and rehabilitation of native Andean wildlife.
Chacaltaya
Chacaltaya was once the highest ski resort in the world before its glacier completely melted in 2009.
Huayna Potosí
Stunning pyramid-shaped mountain near La Paz, popular as an accessible 6,000-meter climb.
Valley of the Souls
A fascinating geological site near La Paz with towering, needle-like rock formations that attract young explorers.
Zongo Valley
The Zongo Valley is a steep gorge near La Paz, known for its hydroelectric facilities and breathtaking cloud forests.