Plizio Visual Lab
Palacio Quemado
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Historical site
The Palacio Quemado, located on Plaza Murillo in La Paz, served as the official seat of the Bolivian presidency from 1853 until 2018. Construction began in 1845 under the direction of architect José Nuñez del Prado and was completed in 1852. Its name, which translates to 'Burnt Palace,' was earned following a severe fire during a popular uprising against President Tomás Frías in 1875. The building is designed in a Neoclassical style, featuring a façade with Doric and Ionic columns and a central courtyard. Inside, a grand white marble staircase leads to historical halls such as the Red Room, used for diplomatic receptions and state banquets. Throughout its history, the palace has been the site of numerous political upheavals and assassinations, symbolizing the nation's turbulent past. Since the opening of the Casa Grande del Pueblo in 2018, it has functioned primarily as a museum and for ceremonial purposes.
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
Palacio Quemado in La Paz is the historic presidential residence and can only be visited during public guided tours on certain days. Access is limited to the courtyard and some representative rooms.
Typical hours
Guided tours are usually offered on Sundays and public holidays, often in the morning between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM. It is advisable to check exact dates in advance at the tourist information office.
Photography
Photography without flash is usually allowed in the courtyard and accessible rooms. During the tour, follow the guide's instructions as some areas may be excluded.
Time needed
The guided tour of Palacio Quemado lasts about 30 to 45 minutes. Plan extra time for the surrounding Plaza Murillo and the cathedral.
Combine with
The palace is right on Plaza Murillo, La Paz's main square, with the government palace and cathedral. Afterwards, visit Calle Jaén with its colonial buildings and museums.
Getting there
Palacio Quemado is located in La Paz's historic center on Plaza Murillo and is easily accessible on foot. Many bus lines and the nearby teleférico station facilitate travel.
Insider tip
Bring your passport, as identification may be required for entry to the palace. Arrive early because the number of visitors per tour is limited.
Geography
Facts
- Construction started in 1845
- The defining fire occurred on September 20, 1875
- Designed by architect José Nuñez del Prado
- Official presidential seat until 2018
- Built in the Neoclassical architectural style
- Site of President Gualberto Villarroel's assassination in 1946
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 Palacio Quemado (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called the 'Burned Palace'?
Following an uprising in 1875, the building was severely damaged by fire.
Where is the palace located?
On Plaza Murillo, the political center of La Paz.
Is it still used as the seat of government?
Most government offices have moved to the new 'Casa Grande del Pueblo'.
Can you visit the palace?
Public tours inside are often restricted for security reasons.
Who guards the palace?
The 'Colorados de Bolivia', the guard in their striking red uniforms.
Palacio Quemado: where is it located?
Palacio Quemado is located in Bolivia.
Palacio Quemado: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Nov.
Palacio Quemado: why is it worth visiting?
The Palacio Quemado, located on Plaza Murillo in La Paz, served as the official seat of the Bolivian presidency from 1853 until 2018.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in South America
More places in Bolivia →
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.
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.
Nature
More places
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.
Cordillera Real
Spectacular glaciated mountain range that separates the Altiplano from the Amazon basin.