Obelisco de La Paz

The Obelisk of La Paz is a landmark monument located in the heart of Bolivia's administrative capital, at the intersection of Avenida Mariscal Santa Cruz and Calle Ayacucho. It was inaugurated in 1948 to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the city's foundation (1548-1948) by Spanish captain Alonso de Mendoza. Standing approximately 15 meters tall and clad in light marble, the obelisk features a clean, vertical design that contrasts with the surrounding colonial and modern architecture. It serves as a central meeting point and a primary navigational reference for both locals and tourists. Positioned near the San Francisco Church and the central post office, it is situated in the middle of the city's bustling commercial and civic district. The monument represents the historical continuity and urban growth of La Paz over four centuries. Despite being surrounded by modern skyscrapers today, it remains a significant symbol of civic pride and historical heritage.

History & landmarks

Catedral de Nuestra Señora de la Paz

The neoclassical cathedral on Plaza Murillo impresses with its steep stairs and magnificent dome.

Plaza Murillo

The central square of La Paz and the historical heart of Bolivian politics and government.

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.

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.

Mirador Killi Killi

A strategically located viewpoint on a hill that offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of La Paz and Mount Illimani.

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

Desaguadero River

The Desaguadero River is the main outflow of Lake Titicaca and feeds Lake Poopó further south.

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.