Relax in the Plaza Murillo, see some of La Paz’s mostmajestic architecture and discover the political history of the city. Since thecolonial years, this square has been the centre of Bolivia's political life andit remains the central place for town activities. Named after Pedro DomingoMurillo, an important figure in the war of independence, the plaza is symbolicof Bolivia’s fight for independence.
Take the time to admire some of the city's moststriking colonial buildings and monuments. On the southern aspect are two importantbuildings: The neoclassical buildings of the Catedral Nuestra Señora de La Pazand the Presidential Palace. Admire the façade of the cathedral with its stained-glasswindows that depict previous presidents obtaining blessings and watch thechanging of the presidential guards in their 19th-century uniforms.
On the east side of the cathedral is the impressivePalacio Legislativo, which dominates the square with its Corinthian-stylecolumns. Previously the Jesuit headquarters, a convent and a university, today thebuilding is the seat of the Bolivian government.
Visit the National Museum of Art, housed in the 18th-centuryPalacio de los Condes de Arana. This building is one of the most impressive ofthe surviving colonial palaces. Browse one of the most comprehensivecollections of Bolivian art, including work by the sculptor Marina Núñez delPrado. See the dramatic artworks of Andean colonial artist, Melchor Pérez Holguín,in a gallery solely dedicated to his artworks.
Families, workers and visitors alike come to thissquare to unwind and socialise. Relax under the warm sun, buy an ice cream froma local vendor and admire the traditional clothing worn by the Aymara women. Walk around the square and see the bust ofthe former president, Gualberto Villarroel, who was killed in 1946 and hungfrom a street lamp. In the centre of the square is the impressive statue ofPedro Domingo Murillo, who was also hung after leading a failed rebellion.
Plaza Murillo is known as the historical heart of LaPaz. Its central location makes it easily accessible by foot, taxi or sharedmini-bus from anywhere in the city.
