The Sanctuary of the Virgin of Guadalupe is a religious gem with a marvelous dome in downtown La Paz. It is a large and peaceful church with a modern-looking edifice. Admire the open and airy feel of the nave, which is flanked by whitewashed columns.
Look for the church’s iconic dark red dome that can be seen from street level rising above the rest of the sanctuary. On the northeastern façade, you’ll see a colorful mural of the praying Virgin of Guadalupe. Pass through the colonnade beneath the religious image to enter the building, which is flanked by palm trees.
Sit at a wooden pew and enjoy the serenity as you take shelter from the afternoon heat. Light passes through the windows wrapping around the underside of the dome, brightening up the white walls of the nave. Study the crucifix and gold-framed religious image above the altar. Inspect the various religious relics and artworks dotted around the sanctuary.
Attend Mass in the morning or evening Monday through Saturday. On Sundays, the church puts on several Mass services. Relax in the charming courtyard and appreciate the black-and-white drawings of religious scenes and figures decorating the church’s brick walls.
Join the festivities for the annual Virgin of Guadalupe day of celebration in December. Learn the story of this apparition of the Virgin Mary who appeared multiple times to Juan Diego in Mexico in the 1500s.
A market selling religious trinkets and works of art is set up near the church. Enjoy seafood and other local specialties at one of the restaurants and cafés in this central zone. Browse the stores in the adjacent María and José shopping mall.
The Sanctuary of the Virgin of Guadalupe is near the city center, just a 15-minute walk southwest from the Zona Comercial.
Visit some of its neighboring attractions, including La Paz Theater, Marina La Paz and Plaza de los Mariachis.
