The Metropolitan Cathedral of Sucre (Catedral Metropolitana de Sucre) is one of Bolivia’s most historic and architecturally significant landmarks. Located on the Plaza 25 de Mayo, in the center of Sucre, the nation’s constitutional capital, the cathedral stands as a magnificent symbol of the city’s colonial heritage and deep Catholic tradition. With its elegant white façade, bell tower, and ornate interior, it perfectly complements Sucre’s title as the “White City” of Bolivia.

Construction of the cathedral began in 1559, only a few decades after the Spanish founded the city. It took nearly a century to complete, reflecting the changing architectural styles of the time—from Renaissance to Baroque and Neoclassical. As the seat of the Archdiocese of Sucre, the cathedral has played a central role in Bolivia’s religious and political history. Sucre itself was once the capital of Upper Peru and the cradle of Bolivia’s independence movement, making the cathedral a silent witness to the country’s birth.

Interesting Facts
- The cathedral combines Renaissance and Baroque architecture, with Neoclassical touches added in later restorations.
- Its bell tower, one of the most recognizable features of Sucre’s skyline, offers panoramic views of the city’s colonial rooftops.
- Inside, the cathedral houses a museum of sacred art, featuring an impressive collection of paintings, silverwork, and religious relics dating back to the 16th century.
- One of its treasures is the gold-plated main altar, richly decorated with intricate carvings and colonial-era artwork.
- Sucre Cathedral is also home to the revered Virgin of Guadalupe of Sucre, the city’s patron saint, whose image is adorned with jewels and precious stones.

Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon, when sunlight highlights the white walls and surrounding colonial buildings.
- Cathedral Museum: Open to visitors for a small fee—don’t miss the opportunity to see the sacred art collection and the city view from the bell tower.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore Casa de la Libertad (where Bolivia’s Declaration of Independence was signed), Plaza 25 de Mayo, and Sucre’s charming cobblestone streets.
- Dress Code: As an active place of worship, modest clothing is recommended when entering the main church.
- Photography Tip: The best exterior shots are taken from the Plaza 25 de Mayo, especially in the golden hour when the façade glows softly against the Andean sky.