Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ing their kids to play. Once there were resident jaywalking sloths here, but they were relo-
cated to the zoo in an effort to protect them from electrocution and increasing traffic haz-
ards in the city center.
Basílica Menor de San Lorenzo
(bell tower admission B$3; bell tower 8am-noon & 3-6pm Mon-Fri, 8am-noon Sat)
Although the original cathedral on Plaza 24 de Septiembre was founded in 1605, the
present structure dates from 1845 and wasn't consecrated until 1915. Inside, the decorat-
ive woodwork on the ceiling and silver plating around the altar are worth a look. There are
good views of the city from the
bell tower
.
CHURCH
MUSEUM
Museo de Arte Sagrado
(Basílica Menor de San Lorenzo, Plaza 24 de Septiembre; admission B$10; 8:30am-
noon & 2:30am-6pm Mon-Fri)
The Museum of Holy Art, inside the cathedral, displays a
collection of religious icons, vestments and medallions. More interesting are the many
gold and silver relics from the Jesuit Guarayos missions. Look out for one of the world's
smallest books, a thumbnail-sized volume containing the Lord's Prayer in several lan-
guages.
PARK
Parque El Arenal
Locals relax around the lagoon at Parque El Arenal, but it's best not to dawdle here at
night. On an island in the lagoon, a bas-relief mural by renowned Bolivian artist Lorgio
Vaca depicts historic and modern-day aspects of Santa Cruz.
MUSEUM
Museo Etno-Folklórico
(
342-9939; admission free; 8am-noon & 2:30am-6:30pm Mon-Fri)
Located at the
entrance to the Parque El Arenal on Beni and 6 de Agosto is the Museo Etno-Folklórico,
which has a small collection of traditional art and artifacts from several
camba
cultures in-
cluding Guaraní, Mojeño, Ayoreo and Chiquitano.
Jardín Zoológico
ZOO
