3 Best Sights in Santa Cruz, Central Bolivia

In the 17th century, Jesuit priests settled in the Chiquitania region of Santa Cruz and constructed remarkable missionary villages based on the utopian ideals that were popular at the time in Europe. They attracted and converted a large local following, and the constructions, particularly the churches, took on a unique mestizo architectural style. After the Spanish expelled the Jesuits from their colonies, their sites all over the continent fell into ruin, but here, six survived and have been restored and nominated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. They are also the venue of an international festival of Baroque and Renaissance music. Ask about tours to the area in agencies in the city.

Built between 1845 and 1915 on the ruins of a 17th-century cathedral, this imposing church holds a small museum displaying colonial-era religious icons, paintings, and sculptures. Although the museum only opens on certain days, you can climb up to the mirador (tower) any weekday for (Bs)3.

Cultural exhibits, recitals, and concerts, in addition to a permanent exhibit of crafts made by indigenous people are all housed here.