Iglesia de La Merced, Colonial church in Sucre, Bolivia

The Iglesia de La Merced is a church building in Sucre featuring Baroque-style elements and richly decorated interior spaces. The interior showcases carved wood details and gold inlays that demonstrate the craftsmanship of the period.

Construction of the church ran from 1581 to 1630, under the patronage of the Virgin of La Merced. In 1967 it was declared a National Monument of Bolivia by Supreme Decree 8171, and it also holds municipal monumental status. In 2013 restoration needs were identified and funding was sought.

The canvases by Melchor Pérez de Holguín hang where the painter himself placed them. The main altarpiece, carved in cedar and gilded in Baroque style, is among Bolivia's oldest and is attributed to Luis Niño of the Potosí school. The wooden pulpit is carved in mestizo Baroque style.

The church stands in central Sucre, in the Chuquisaca Department. It was declared a National Monument of Bolivia in 1967 by Supreme Decree 8171, and in 2013 restoration needs were identified, with fundraising begun. Visitors may find parts of the building under repair, so check access before planning a visit.

The cedar altarpiece of the main altar, one of the oldest in Bolivia, is attributed to Luis Niño of the Potosí school. The canvases by Melchor Pérez de Holguín were placed in their current positions by the painter himself.