Cathedral and Plaza Murillo
Attraction

Cathedral and Plaza Murillo

Bolivia tourist attractions - Cathedral and Plaza Murillo

Updated: August 6, 2026

Bolivia tourist attractions - Cathedral and Plaza Murillo

Plaza Murillo is located in the center of La Paz city, it holds the Presidential Palace also known as Palacio Quemado(burned palace), due the number of times it was burned, opposite, stands a statue of President Gualberto Villarroel. In 1946, he was dragged from the palace by vigilantes and hanged from a lamp post in the square. Interestingly enough, Don Pedro Domingo Murillo, for whom the plaza was named, met a similar fate here in 1810

A relatively recent addition to La Paz's collection of religious structures, the 1835 cathedral is an impressive structure. It is built on a steep hillside and the main entrance is 12m higher than its base on Calle Potosi.The cathedral's sheer immensity, with its high dome, hulking columns, thick stone walls and high ceilings, is overpowering.

Inside, the main attraction is the profusion of stained-glass work; the windows behind the altar depict a gathering of Bolivian politicos being blessed from above by a flock of heavenly admirers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do for altitude acclimatization?
Rest on day one, hydrate often, and avoid heavy activity in your first 24 hours.

Nearby Places & Attractions

Red Lagoon
Attraction

Red Lagoon

The Red lagoon (Laguna Colorada) is a shallow lake within the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve and close to the border with Chile. The lake is famous for its strong red colour caused by algae that provide food for large flocks of pink flamingos.

Green Lagoon
Attraction

Green Lagoon

Green lagoon (Laguna Verde) is a high-altitude mineral lake in the Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, known for its beautiful green color. It sits at the foot of 2 volcanoes, Licancabur and Juriques, which straddle the border with Chile and are reflected in the water when the weather is calm.

Rock Tree
Attraction

Rock Tree

The Rock Tree (Árbol de Piedra) is a tree-like rock formation in the Siloli Desert desert that offers great photo opportunities!

Chincana Labyrinth
Attraction

Chincana Labyrinth

Elevations

Gold Museum
Attraction

Gold Museum

The Gold Museum (Museo de Oro) is a small museum located in the North Side of the Sun Island.

Siloli Desert
Attraction

Siloli Desert

The Arbol de Piedra (Stone Tree) is a volcanic rock formation in the Desierto Siloli in Bolivia. The rock is unique because it resembles a tree. The Desierto Siloli is considered to be part of the Atacama Desert in neighboring Chile.

Ready to visit Cathedral and Plaza Murillo?

We can help you organize the perfect trip to this incredible destination.