Happy TravellerWelcome to Sucre, the judicial capital of Bolivia and a city of major national importance. Located in the south-central part of the country, Sucre lies at an elevation of 2,810 m (9,220 ft) and boasts a subtropical highland climate with cool temperatures year-round. Its pre-Columbian name was Chuquisaca, and during the Spanish Empire, it was called La Plata. Today, Sucre remains an educational and government center, as well as the location of the Bolivian Supreme Court. Its pleasant climate and low crime rates have made the city popular amongst foreigners and Bolivians alike. Notably, Sucre contains one of the best-preserved Hispanic colonial and republican historic city centers in the Western Hemisphere, similar to cities such as Cuzco and Quito. This architectural heritage and the millennial history of the Charcas region have led to Sucre’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sucre has held an important place in Bolivian history from its place as an important center in the Real Audencia de Charcas, and later as the first capital of Bolivia before the fall of silver’s importance as a global mineral commodity. Today Sucre is well known for its role in national judicial functions, its local culture and history, renowned architectural urban fabric, and local industries such as chocolate, textiles, and concrete.
The city of Sucre contains many old and classic buildings, including the House of Freedom, National Library, Metropolitan Cathedral, Archbishops Palace, Departmental Autonomous Government of Chuquisaca, Supreme Court of Justice, General Cemetery, and numerous churches and convents. The city is also home to the second oldest public university in the Americas, the Universidad Mayor Real y Pontificia de San Francisco Xavier de Chuquisaca.
Sucre is divided into eight numbered districts, with the first five being urban districts and Districts 6, 7, and 8 being rural districts. Each is administered by a Sub-Mayor appointed by the Mayor of Sucre. The rural districts include numerous rural communities outside the urban area.
Sucre has a subtropical highland climate with mild temperatures year-round. Rain generally falls in summer thunderstorms. The highest record temperature was 34.7 °C (94.5 °F) while the lowest record temperature was −6 °C (21 °F).
Sucre is the gateway to numerous small villages that date from the colonial era, the most well-known of which is Tarabuco, home of the colorful Pujllay festival held each March. Most of these villagers are members of one of the indigenous ethnicities. Many dress in clothing distinctive to their respective villages.
Sucre has the most important sport facilities in Bolivia, and the most practiced sport in the city is football. Sucre has the second-biggest football and Olympic stadium in the country, the Estadio Patria.
In conclusion, Sucre is a city of rich history, breathtaking architecture, and vibrant culture. Its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to its importance and beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s historic landmarks, sampling its delicious local cuisine, or simply soaking up its pleasant climate and laid-back atmosphere, Sucre is a destination that should not be missed.
