Bolivian Coat of Arms

Architecture

Bolivian Coat of Arms


One fine example of the Mestizo-Baroque architectural style does exist in La Paz.  This is the San Francisco church, constructed between 1753 and 1772, by indigenous workmen and possibly indigenous architects, thus reflecting both the inspiration then current in Spain and the older, more traditional indigenous style.
 

Various public buildings have murals painted on them from artists commissioned by the government around the time of the Bolivian National Revolution in the 1950's.  These paintings reflect the country's ordinary folk in their various activities, with an emphasis on indigenous scenes.

The best example of Spanish-Colonial architecture is found in the neighborhoods surrounding the el Centro, where the wealthy elite once lived, but have since deserted. A recently common practice is to remodel an old colonial house into a high-class restaurant. The balcony to the right shows how the urban elite added more space to a building by attaching an enclosed balcony to the second story.

Other renovation projects have happened partly as a response to tourism and the demand to see examples of the architecture of the colonial time. One of the most famous streets for tourists to see is Calle Jaen, pictured below. This narrow street is made of cobblestone, and is lined on either side by white Spanish-style buildings.


The plazas in La Paz are also good examples of this historic architecture, and some have been kept up nicely, as well as being used, for over a hundred years. A good example of this is the Plaza Murillo, pictured below, where the Presidential Palace and Congressional Building are located.


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