Metropolitan Cathedral: Santa Cruz's Brick Landmark

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Santa Cruz de la Sierra is the second-largest church in Bolivia, and you can climb its bell tower for 3 bolivianos. Officially the Catedral Metropolitana Basílica Menor de San Lorenzo, the cathedral anchors the historic Plaza 24 de Septiembre, and its twin brick towers are visible from across the city center. Construction began in 1839 under French architect Felipe Bertrés, though the site has hosted a church since 1595. The current building was finally completed and consecrated in 1915, blending neoclassical symmetry with baroque flourishes.

A Timeline of Faith and Reconstruction

From Wood to Brick: The Cathedral's Many Lives

The first church on this spot was a simple wooden structure built in 1595, shortly after the city's founding. Over the next two centuries, fires, earthquakes, and termite damage forced repeated rebuilds—by 1770, Bishop Ramón de Herbosos had commissioned a fourth church, but it too proved inadequate. It wasn't until 1839 that local authorities tapped French architect Felipe Bertrés to design a permanent masonry cathedral. Progress stalled for decades due to funding shortages and political turmoil, and the project only gained momentum in 1904 when Monseñor Santistevan hired another Frenchman, León Mousnier, to finish the job. The cathedral was consecrated on August 18, 1915, and has remained largely unchanged since.

Architecture: Neoclassical Bones, Baroque Soul

The facade stretches 60 meters wide, making it one of the largest church fronts in the Americas. Two square towers rise 45 meters on either side, their brick surfaces unplastered—a deliberate choice that gives the building its earthy, russet hue. Inside, three naves are separated by rows of arches, and the ceiling consists of wooden vaults painted with floral and geometric motifs. The main altar retains a silver covering salvaged from the Jesuit missions of San Pedro de Moxos, a detail that often surprises visitors expecting only local craftwork. Notice the asymmetric placement of the pulpits; local lore says one was moved during a 1920s renovation to improve acoustics.

The Museum and Bell Tower

A small museum, the Museo Catedralicio de Arte Sacro Monseñor Carlos Gericke Suarez, occupies the rear cloister. It displays silver chalices, embroidered vestments, and a tiny book—just 2.5 centimeters tall—containing the Lord's Prayer in multiple languages, often cited as one of the world's smallest books. Entry to the museum costs 10 bolivianos (fees may change; check at the office). The bell tower climb is separate and costs 3 bolivianos; the staircase is narrow and steep, with 80 steps, but the view over the plaza and the city's low-rise skyline is worth the effort. Go before 5 p.m., as the tower closes earlier than the church.

Visiting the Cathedral: Practical Details

Location and Getting There

The cathedral stands on the east side of Plaza 24 de Septiembre, at the corner of Calle René Moreno and Calle Sucre. Most city buses—lines 113, 114, 28, 34, and 49—stop within a 2-minute walk at Cochabamba y Ballivián or Calle Aroma. If you're coming from Viru Viru International Airport (18 kilometers away), a taxi takes about 30 minutes and costs 70–100 bolivianos. Ride-hailing apps work in Santa Cruz, but surge pricing is common during rush hour. The plaza itself is pedestrian-friendly, though you'll share the space with vendors and shoe-shiners.

Opening Hours and Mass Times

The church is generally open Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., and Sunday from 6:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Mass is held weekdays at 8:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m., with additional services on weekends. The museum and tower keep shorter hours: Monday to Saturday 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m., Sunday only 3:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. (tower only). Hours can shift during religious holidays, so confirm at the office door before planning your climb.

What to Wear and How to Behave

This is an active parish, not just a monument. Dress modestly—no shorts above the knee or sleeveless tops—and remove hats inside. During Mass, tourists are welcome to observe from the rear pews but should not walk around or take flash photos. The plaza outside is generally safe during daylight, but pickpocketing happens in crowded areas after dark; keep bags zipped and phones out of sight. If you visit on a Sunday, expect families filling the pews and a livelier atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit

Santa Cruz has a tropical climate with a wet season from November to March. April through October brings clearer skies and cooler evenings—temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C—making both the tower climb and plaza strolls more comfortable. Late afternoon (4–6 p.m.) is ideal: the sun lights the brick facade from the west, and you'll catch the bell tower before it closes. Avoid midday heat if you're sensitive; the interior stays cool but the plaza offers little shade.

Nearby Sights and a Suggested Half-Day Route

Around Plaza 24 de Septiembre

The plaza itself is surrounded by the Prefectura Departamental, the Alcaldía Municipal, and the Casa de la Cultura—all worth a quick look for their colonial-republican facades. The Manzana Uno cultural center, half a block north, hosts rotating art exhibitions and a Sunday craft market. For coffee, try one of the cafes on the plaza's north side; they're pricier than side-street options but offer unobstructed cathedral views.

Beyond the Plaza

A 10-minute walk northwest brings you to the Mercado Nuevo, a sprawling market where you can buy local fruits, textiles, and pottery. The Museo de Arte Contemporáneo, housed in a restored mansion, is another 5 minutes further. If you have time for a longer outing, the Biocentro Güembé (a nature park with butterfly houses and pools) is 12 kilometers from the center and makes a good half-day trip.

Suggested Itinerary

Start at 9:00 a.m. with the cathedral museum (before the tour groups arrive), climb the tower by 10:30, then walk through the plaza and surrounding streets for an hour. Break for lunch at a local salteña stand—the city is famous for these baked empanadas—and spend the afternoon at the Mercado Nuevo or a museum. Return to the plaza around 5:00 p.m. for the golden-hour light on the cathedral's brickwork and a relaxed dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an entrance fee for the cathedral?

The church itself is free to enter. The museum charges 10 bolivianos, and the bell tower climb costs 3 bolivianos. Fees are subject to change—check the office for current rates.

How long should I plan for a visit?

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours including the museum and tower. If you attend Mass or linger in the plaza, allow 2–3 hours.

Can I climb the bell tower?

Yes, for 3 bolivianos. The staircase is narrow and has 80 steps, and the tower closes at 6:30 p.m. Monday–Saturday and 6:00 p.m. Sunday. It may be closed during services.

What is the best day to avoid crowds?

Weekday mornings are quietest. Sunday mornings are busy with locals attending Mass, and Saturday afternoons draw tourists. For photography, late Friday afternoon offers soft light and fewer people.

Are there guided tours available?

Guided tours in Spanish are sometimes offered by the cathedral office, but they're not regularly scheduled. The museum has descriptive panels in Spanish; English-speaking guides can be arranged through private tour operators in the city.