Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, La Paz
Church Neoclassical cathedral in La Paz's historic center
La Paz’s main cathedral sits on Plaza Murillo near government buildings; visitors come for its colonial façade, interior altars and as a starting point for exploring the historic city centre.
The Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is the principal Roman Catholic cathedral in La Paz, Bolivia, located on Plaza Murillo in the city’s historic centre. It serves as the seat of the local archdiocese and as the main parish church for the city.
The building presents a prominent civic and religious façade on the main square and contains the cathedral’s principal altars and liturgical spaces. It is a focal point for religious ceremonies and official events in La Paz.
The current cathedral stands on the site of earlier colonial churches that served the city; the structure visible today dates largely from the 19th century after successive rebuildings. Over time it has been adapted and restored while retaining its civic and religious functions.
Positioned on Plaza Murillo, the cathedral is in the heart of La Paz’s administrative and historic district, a short walk from government buildings, museums and other central urban landmarks.
- Location within the city: Sits on Plaza Murillo in central La Paz immediately adjacent to the Government Palace and other civic buildings, making it a convenient stop on a historic-city walking route.
- Ecclesiastical role: Functions as the seat of the local archbishopric and is the principal Catholic church for the city of La Paz.
How to Get to Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, La Paz #
The Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Catedral Metropolitana) stands in central La Paz at Plaza Murillo. It is within walking distance of other government buildings and the main city-center bus stops; taxis and local minibuses (micros) serve the historic center. By road the cathedral is reached from El Alto International Airport by a drive of roughly 13-15 km into central La Paz; airport taxis and shuttles are the usual option for that transfer.
Tips for Visiting Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, La Paz #
- Visit early in the morning to experience Plaza Murillo and the cathedral with fewer people and better light for photographing the surrounding government buildings.
- Enter from Plaza Murillo; be aware that services can limit access to parts of the interior, so check the cathedral's schedule if you want an uninterrupted visit.
- Take a short walk around the plaza after visiting-the architectural ensemble and nearby government palaces are often overlooked but add useful historical context.
Best Time to Visit Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, La Paz #
Aim for the dry season (May-October) for clearer skies and easier walking around the cathedral, keeping in mind La Paz's high altitude.
Weather & Climate near Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, La Paz #
Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, La Paz's climate is classified as Subtropical Highland (Dry Winter) - Subtropical Highland (Dry Winter) climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from -1°C to 20°C. Moderate rainfall (639 mm/year) with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 6°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (139 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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February
February is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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March
March is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 5°C. Regular rainfall (83 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm).
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May
May is cold with highs of 18°C and lows of 1°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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June
June is cold with highs of 17°C and lows of 0°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 17°C and lows of -1°C. The driest month with just 9 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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August
August is cold with highs of 18°C and lows of 0°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (35 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm).
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November
November is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 5°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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