About
Sucre is the constitutional capital of Bolivia and the capital of the Chuquisaca Department, set in the south of the country. It is often called the White City, a name that reflects the whitewashed walls of its colonial centre. The city is also known by the older names Chuquisaca and La Plata, which you may see on maps, signs and in local conversation.
What to see
The historic centre is the main reason visitors come. Its colonial architecture is well preserved, and the city's UNESCO World Heritage status recognises that the old town has kept its character. Walking the streets is the simplest way to take it in, with churches, plazas and handsome façades around almost every corner.
Planning your visit
- Setting: Sucre lies in Bolivia's Chuquisaca Department, in the South American Andes.
- Character: A calm, historic city, best suited to unhurried walking and sightseeing.
- Status: Constitutional capital of Bolivia, with a legal and historical weight that shapes its streets and buildings.
- Who it suits: Visitors interested in colonial architecture, heritage and the history of the region.
Because the old centre is compact, a few days allow time to explore it at a relaxed pace. Check current conditions and opening arrangements for individual buildings before you go, as these can change.
