Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, La Paz, Structure of worship at Murillo Square, La Paz, Bolivia.
The Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is a large house of worship at Murillo Square with five interior naves combining neoclassical style and baroque elements. Two side towers define its outer facade and make the building easily recognizable from the street.
Construction began in 1835 after demolishing the original 1692 church to make way for a modern building. The current structure was inaugurated in 1925 during Bolivia's centenary celebration.
The cathedral occupies Murillo Square, the heart of historic La Paz, where people pass by daily and take in the architectural presence. This central location shapes the city's character and serves as a gathering point where visitors sense the spiritual importance of the space.
The building is freely accessible from outside and welcomes visitors regardless of religious services. Those entering should prepare for stairs and expect quiet behavior, as it remains an active place of prayer.
The side towers were completed only in 1989, a full century after the first part of the church was finished. This lengthy building process shows how gradually the project unfolded across generations.
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