Sucre

About

The temperate climate made Sucre the preferred destination for Spanish royalty and wealthy families, who transformed the city into the most beautiful in Bolivia. Its historic center, with its cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses, ornate churches, and lavish palaces is one of the best-preserved in the New World, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Basilica of Saint Francisco is one of the city’s most cherished monuments - it was here that Bolivia signed its independence from Spain, which they rang in until the church bell broke. The 17th century St. Francis Xavier University with its porticoed courtyard is another standout. But for the most unique building in all of Bolivia, don’t miss the Glorieta Castle. This sandstone palace was built in the 19th century by mining magnate and banker Don Francisco Argandoña and his wife, who the pope named the first (and only_ Prince and Princess of Bolivia. Their romantic abode incorporates elements from nearly every architectural style, including a copy of the Elizabeth Tower.