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Catedral de San Lorenzo
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Landmark
The Cathedral of San Lorenzo is the spiritual heart of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, located on the central Plaza 24 de Septiembre. The current basilica was built between 1838 and 1915, replacing earlier wooden structures from the colonial period. Designed by French architect Philippe Bertres, the building features an eclectic style with strong neoclassical elements. Its most striking features are the exposed red brick facade and the two massive bell towers, one of which can be climbed for a panoramic view of the city. Inside, the cathedral houses a magnificent altar carved from silver and wood, which originated from the Jesuit missions of San Pedro de Moxos. The vaulted wooden ceilings reflect the architectural traditions of the tropical eastern lowlands of Bolivia. As the seat of the Archdiocese of Santa Cruz, it remains a focal point for the city's religious celebrations and is considered one of Bolivia's most important national monuments.
- Location: Bolivia
- Top sights: Monumento Cristo Redentor · Cathedral of Santa Cruz · El Castillo
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 23 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 169 | 150 | 115 | 92 | 85 | 70 | 38 | 40 | 48 | 84 | 112 | 136 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Cathedral of San Lorenzo in Santa Cruz is usually open for visitors, the interior with its brick facade and woodwork is worth seeing. Entry is typically free.
Typical hours
Opening hours follow services; usually open in the morning and late afternoon. On holidays, access may be restricted.
Photography
Photography inside is usually allowed without flash, the wooden ceilings and brick architecture are special subjects. The exterior also gives interesting perspectives.
Time needed
A visit typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes to admire the interior and facade. Those exploring the surroundings should allow an hour.
Combine with
Combine the cathedral with the central Plaza 24 de Septiembre and the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo. The Basilica Menor de San Lorenzo is also nearby.
Getting there
The cathedral is in the center of Santa Cruz, on Plaza 24 de Septiembre. It is walkable from most hotels and attractions.
Insider tip
Visit the cathedral in the evening when the facade is lit up. Ask about guided tours often offered by the community.
Geography
Facts
- Construction spanned from 1838 to 1915
- Designed by French architect Philippe Bertres
- Features an iconic exposed brick facade
- Contains a silver altar from the Jesuit missions
- One bell tower is open to the public as a lookout
- Main square location (Plaza 24 de Septiembre)
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Catedral de San Lorenzo (11)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is this cathedral located?
It stands on Plaza 24 de Septiembre in Santa Cruz de la Sierra.
Can you climb the bell tower?
Yes, for a fee, you have a great view of the plaza.
When was the current building built?
The current cathedral was built between 1845 and 1915.
What is the building material?
The facade is made of characteristic red bricks.
Is there a museum in the cathedral?
Yes, the Museo de Arte Sacro displays religious art objects.
Catedral de San Lorenzo: where is it located?
Catedral de San Lorenzo is located in Bolivia.
Catedral de San Lorenzo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Monumento Cristo Redentor, Cathedral of Santa Cruz, El Castillo.
Catedral de San Lorenzo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Catedral de San Lorenzo: why is it worth visiting?
The Cathedral of San Lorenzo is the spiritual heart of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, located on the central Plaza 24 de Septiembre.
Explore with Plizio
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History & landmarks
Plaza 24 de Septiembre
The lively main square of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, a tropical hub full of palm trees, relaxed locals, and historical buildings.
Misión Jesuítica de San Javier
The first of the famous Jesuit missions in the Chiquitania, known for its beautiful wood carving and musical tradition.
Misión Jesuítica de Concepción
One of the best-restored Jesuit missions in Bolivia, showcasing the masterful craftsmanship of the native Chiquitano people.
Nature
Salar de Uyuni
Salar de Uyuni is the world's largest salt flat and harbors a large portion of the world's lithium reserves.
Laguna Colorada
Laguna Colorada is a shallow, red salt lake in southwestern Bolivia and a vital habitat for James's flamingos.
Laguna Verde
Laguna Verde is a strikingly turquoise salt lake at the foot of the Licancabur volcano in southwestern Bolivia.
Laguna Blanca
Laguna Blanca is a whitish salt lake separated from the neighboring Laguna Verde by only a narrow corridor.
More places
Noel Kempff Mercado Zoo
A sprawling urban zoo in Santa Cruz focusing almost exclusively on native South American fauna.
Biocentro Güembé
A lush eco-park near Santa Cruz known for having one of the world's largest butterfly domes.
🗺️
Santa Cruz Sugarcane Fields
Vast estates in the eastern lowlands cultivate sugarcane, a vital crop driving the regional agro-industry.
Santa Cruz Soy Fields
The fertile lowlands around Santa Cruz are the agricultural powerhouse of Bolivia, dominated by vast mechanized soy fields.
El Fuerte de Samaipata
A massive sandstone rock where pre-Inca and Inca cultures carved detailed religious and astronomical figures.
San Javier Jesuit Mission
The oldest of the Jesuit Missions of the Chiquitos, known for its beautiful wooden church and rich musical tradition.
San Miguelito Jaguar Ranch
A working cattle ranch pioneering conservation by protecting big cats and offering ecotourism safaris.
Kaa-Iya National Park
The largest national park in Bolivia, protecting a vast area of the Gran Chaco dry forest.