Located in the center of La Paz, Bolivia, right on Plaza San Francisco, the Basilica of San Francisco is an iconic Catholic church dedicated to Francis of Assisi. If you are exploring the city, this historic site offers a captivating look into centuries of architectural evolution. Founded initially in the mid-16th century along the Choqueyapu River, the original structure collapsed from heavy snowfall in the early 1600s.
The current building you see today was constructed primarily between 1743 and 1772 in the distinctive Andean Baroque style, with its dome completed in 1753 and its carved façade finished in 1790. As you visit, you will notice its grand single tower, which was added later near the end of the 19th century starting in 1885. Declared a minor basilica in 1948, the site underwent further changes when part of its convent was demolished in the mid-20th century.
Today, you can appreciate both its historic sacred spaces and its dedicated museum, which has been housed inside the church since 1965. It remains an essential cultural landmark in the heart of La Paz.
What to see at Basilica of San Francisco, La Paz, Bolivia
- Intricate Andean Baroque architecture and a carved façade finished in 1790
- Distinctive single tower added to the building starting in 1885
- Rich history dating back to the original 1548 convent foundation
- On-site museum housing historic exhibits inside the church since 1965
Visiting tips
Be sure to take time to admire the intricate details of the carved Andean Baroque façade before heading inside to explore the museum.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Basilica of San Francisco, La Paz, Bolivia is easy to reach on La Paz’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our La Paz travel guide.
See the full La Paz travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.