Exploring Sucre, Bolivia: A City Worth Visiting?

Sucre, Bolivia, is a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as The White City, Sucre boasts stunning white colonial architecture, a vibrant market, and a rich cultural heritage. With its laid-back atmosphere, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights, Sucre is a must-visit destination in South America.

The city's well-preserved historical centre, recognised by UNESCO, showcases the blending of local traditions with European styles. Sucre's central square, Plaza 25 de Mayo, is surrounded by important landmarks such as the Cathedral, Liberty House, and the State Government Building. The city also offers a variety of museums, including Casa de la Libertad, where Bolivia's Declaration of Independence was signed.

Beyond the city, travellers can explore the surrounding natural landscapes, such as the Maragua Crater and the Las Siete Cascadas waterfalls. Sucre is also a great place to learn Spanish, with many language schools and affordable prices. The city's cuisine is diverse, ranging from local Bolivian dishes to vegetarian options and European fine dining.

With its mix of history, culture, and natural attractions, Sucre, Bolivia, is a captivating destination that leaves visitors with unforgettable memories.

Sucre's History

Sucre, the constitutional capital of Bolivia, has a rich history that dates back to the pre-colonial era. Here is a brief overview of the city's history:

Pre-Colonial Era

Indigenous groups, including the Charcas, had inhabited the area for thousands of years before the Spanish invasion. The region was also colonised by the Incas for around 200 years before the arrival of the Spanish. The Inca town was called Chuquisaca, which is still used as an alternative designation for the city today. The name possibly derives from the Quechua words "chuqi", meaning precious metal or silver, and "shaqa", meaning abundance or a heap, thus translating to "a heap of precious metal" or "a pile of silver".

Spanish Colonial Era

The Spanish foundation of Sucre occurred on 30 November 1538 (or 1539, according to another source) under the name Ciudad de la Plata de la Nueva Toledo (City of Silver of New Toledo) by Pedro Anzures, Marqués de Campo Redondo. The city was established on the site of a Charcas Indian village and was a centre of wealth due to its proximity to the mines of Potosi. The city's narrow streets and grid layout reflect the Andalusian culture and architecture of the Spanish colonial era.

During the colonial era, Sucre was known as La Plata and served as the judicial, religious, and cultural centre of the region. In 1561, it became the capital of the Charcas audiencia, a judicial and military territory of the Viceroyalty of Peru. The city also became the seat of an archdiocese in 1609. Many well-preserved religious buildings from this period still stand, including San Lázaro, San Francisco, and Santo Domingo, which blend local architectural traditions with styles imported from Europe.

Independence and Modern Era

Sucre played a significant role in the Bolivian independence movement. On 25 May 1809, the movement began with the ringing of the bell of the Basilica of Saint Francisco. In 1825, the republic of Bolivia was declared in Sucre, and the city became the first capital of the newly independent nation in 1839. The city was renamed Sucre in honour of the revolutionary leader Antonio José de Sucre. However, in 1898, the seat of government was moved to La Paz, leading to regional tensions that still persist today.

Today, Sucre remains the judicial capital of Bolivia and is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, mild climate, and low crime rates. It is a popular destination for tourists and foreigners, offering a glimpse into the country's rich history and cultural heritage.

Learning Spanish in Sucre

Sucre is a beautiful city located in the highlands of Bolivia. It is one of the most visited cities in the country and is known for its stunning white buildings, charming churches, and picturesque colonial architecture. With a rich history that includes indigenous groups, Inca colonisation, and Spanish rule, it is a great place to learn about Bolivian culture and improve your Spanish skills.

Most Spanish schools in Sucre are part of hostels or hotels, making it a convenient and affordable option for visitors. You can expect to pay around $6 USD per hour for private lessons, with group lessons being slightly cheaper. The schools usually offer flexible schedules, allowing you to choose your class hours and the number of days you want to attend. Additionally, booking a larger number of hours, such as over 20 hours, can get you a discounted rate.

When it comes to choosing a school, there are several highly-rated options in Sucre. One popular choice is Colors Hostel Sucre, which combines accommodation and language learning. It is located close to the main plaza and shops, and offers private lessons for $6 USD per hour and group lessons for $5 USD. Another option is Kultur Berlin, a "flashpackers hostel" known for its social atmosphere and comfortable facilities. Their Spanish school, Sucre Spanish School, is located around the corner from the hostel, with private lessons at $6.50 USD per hour and group lessons at $5.20 USD.

If you prefer a homestay experience, you can book a stay with a Bolivian family to immerse yourself in the local culture while improving your language skills. Alternatively, you can opt for a school like Me Gusta Spanish School, which offers the choice of learning at their school or at your accommodation, including the option of a homestay. Their private lessons are $6.50 USD per hour.

While studying in Sucre, you can also take advantage of the city's attractions to enhance your learning experience. Visit museums like Casa de la Libertad, explore the local markets such as Mercado Central, or admire the views from La Recoleta. The city's well-preserved architecture, delicious food, and vibrant culture will undoubtedly make your language learning journey more enjoyable and memorable.

The City's Architecture

Sucre is a city of architectural treasures, where the legacy of Spanish settlement intertwines with the enduring traditions of the indigenous Yampara culture. Founded in 1538 as Ciudad de la Plata de la Nueva Toledo (Silver Town of New Toledo), the city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognising its exceptional urban planning and architectural legacy.

The historic centre of Sucre spans 113.76 hectares (281 acres) and was designed with a simple yet elegant checkerboard pattern of streets, a hallmark of 16th-century Spanish town planning in the Americas. This grid-like layout serves as the backdrop for numerous religious buildings, including the Metropolitan Cathedral, whose construction began in 1559 and took 250 years to complete.

The buildings of Sucre eloquently illustrate the blending of local architectural traditions with styles imported from Europe, spanning from the 16th to the 19th centuries. The Casa de la Libertad (House of Freedom), constructed in 1621 as part of the Convent of the Jesuits, holds particular historical significance as the site where events leading to Bolivia's independence took place. It is considered the country's most important historical monument.

The 18th-century buildings in Sucre are characteristic of the local architectural style, reminiscent of those found in the nearby city of Potosí during the same period. Notable examples include the San Felipe Neri monastery, a beautiful neo-classical convent with delicate protruding white turrets and terracotta-roofed bell towers.

As the centuries progressed, structures from the late 18th and early 19th centuries retained traditional patios while adapting to the Neoclassical style imported from metropolitan Spain. An example of this architectural fusion is the Basilica of San Francisco, a colonial-era church built in 1581 with a predominantly neoclassical style and a hint of baroque influence.

The rich tapestry of architectural influences, seamlessly blended with local traditions, makes Sucre a true masterpiece of urban design and a living museum showcasing the fusion of Indigenous and European cultures.

Sucre's Food Scene

The Central Market

Sucre's Central Market is a bustling hub of fresh produce and traditional cuisine. Every day, locals and tourists alike flock to the market to purchase ingredients for their meals or indulge in the variety of dishes offered by the stall owners. The market is not just a place for transactions; it is a community where people from all walks of life come together to share a meal and engage in companionable silence. The sense of community extends beyond the market, as people walking past your table will often wish you "buen provecho" (the Spanish equivalent of "bon appetit").

Breakfast Options

For breakfast, the market offers a range of options, such as hot salteñas filled with carne, vegetables, and gravy, or empanadas de queso from the loudest and friendliest woman in the area. A bag of two salteñas will only cost you 7 bolivianos (70 pence), making it a delicious and affordable way to start your day. If you have a little more time, you can head upstairs to the heart of the market for papa rellenas or empanadas de queso.

Lunch and Dinner

When it comes to lunch and dinner, Sucre has something for everyone. The city boasts a variety of restaurants serving local Bolivian dishes, vegetarian options, and international cuisine. One popular choice is the "menu del dia," a common option for locals, which offers a substantial amount of food at a fraction of the price of tourist-friendly dishes. A typical "menu del dia" includes a bowl of soup, a segundo of meat, vegetables, and rice, followed by a postre, all accompanied by a glass of juice. For vegetarian options, Cafe Condor, an entirely vegetarian cafe run by Condor Trekkers, offers tasty and filling options like tucumanas and papas rellenas stuffed with cheese.

Cafes and Bars

Sucre also has a plethora of cafes and bars to suit every taste. Metro Cafe, located on Plaza 25 de Mayo, offers speciality coffees, salads, snacks, hot meals, and desserts in a stylish and relaxed atmosphere. For a cosy and intimate dinner, Dutch-owned Florin Cafe offers a tasty selection of local and international dishes, including the Ensalada Titicaca and Pad Thai, paired with craft ales. Joy Ride Cafe, a tourist favourite, serves reasonably priced food and has some of the fastest Wi-Fi in town.

Chocolates and Treats

Last but not least, Sucre is the epicentre of Bolivian chocolate production. With two main chocolate producers, Taboada and Para Ti, the city offers a wide range of chocolates that are sold throughout the country and beyond. Whether you're a self-proclaimed chocoholic or simply looking for a sweet treat, Sucre's chocolate scene is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Outdoor Activities

Sucre, Bolivia's capital city, is a beautiful colonial city situated in the southern highlands of the country. Here are some outdoor activities you can do in Sucre:

Trekking

If you like trekking, there are several trekking paths around Sucre. You can trek to Las Siete Cascadas (The Seven Waterfalls) or head to the two-to-three-day trek to Maragua Crater. Both treks are well-marked on maps, but many people have reported getting lost, so it is recommended to use a GPS. The Maragua Crater trek offers spectacular panoramic views of multi-coloured swirling rocks and fossilised dinosaur footprints. There are several trekking agencies that offer this hike, including Condor Trekkers, which gives back to the poor communities in rural areas.

Rock Climbing

Bolivia has a surprising number of places for rock climbing, and the mountains surrounding Sucre offer a range of walls to try, all with spectacular views. Climbing Sucre is a reputable agency in Sucre that offers climbing experiences with experienced English-speaking guides.

Hiking

There are several hikes you can do around Sucre. One option is to hike to Cerro Churuquella, a small hill located next to the Sica Sica climbing area, which offers great views of the city. The path is easy to find with Google Maps or Maps.me, and there are stone-carved steps leading to the top. Another hike you can do is to the La Recoleta viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the city and is a popular spot for locals in the afternoon.

Walking Tours

A walking tour is a great way to explore the city and learn about its history and culture. Condor Trekkers offers a fantastic walking tour that covers the main sites and includes delicious treats.

Exploring the City

Strolling through the streets and parks of Sucre is a great way to spend an afternoon. You can discover hidden places, charming cafes, and European-like restaurants and bars. La Recoleta is a nice plaza with a cafe and viewpoint, where you can enjoy a drink while taking in the white roofs of the city. It is also a great spot for photography and shopping for souvenirs.

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