Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SUCRE
4 / POP 215,000 / ELEV 2750M
Proud, genteel Sucre is Bolivia's most beautiful city and the symbolic heart of the nation. It
was here that independence was proclaimed and while La Paz is now the seat of govern-
ment and treasury, Sucre is recognized in the constitution as the nation's capital. A glorious
ensemble of whitewashed buildings sheltering pretty patios, it's a spruce place that pre-
serves a wealth of colonial architecture. Sensibly, there are strict controls on development,
which have ensured Sucre remains a real showpiece of Bolivia. It was declared a Unesco
World Heritage Site in 1991.
Set in a valley surrounded by low mountains, Sucre enjoys a mild and comfortable cli-
mate. It's still a center of learning and both the city and its university enjoy reputations as
focal points of progressive thought within the country.
With a selection of excellent accommodations, a wealth of churches and museums, and
plenty to see and do in the surrounding area, it's no surprise that visitors end up spending
much longer in Sucre than they bargained on.
