Things to Do at Casa de la Libertad

Complete Guide to Casa de la Libertad in Sucre

About Casa de la Libertad

Casa de la Libertad (House of Liberty) stands as Bolivia's most significant historical monument, located in the heart of Sucre's colonial center. This former Jesuit university, built in the 17th century, holds the distinction of being the birthplace of Bolivia as an independent nation. On August 6, 1825, the Bolivian Declaration of Independence was signed within these walls, making it a sacred site for Bolivian patriots and history enthusiasts alike. Today, the Casa de la Libertad serves as a museum dedicated to Bolivia's independence movement and early republican period. The building's colonial architecture, with its elegant courtyards and period rooms, provides an authentic backdrop for an impressive collection of historical artifacts, documents, and artwork. Visitors can explore the very room where South American liberators debated and ultimately established Bolivia's sovereignty, surrounded by portraits of independence heroes and original furnishings from the era.

What to See & Do

Independence Hall

The sacred room where Bolivia's independence was declared in 1825, featuring original furniture and the table where the historic document was signed

Portrait Gallery

Extensive collection of paintings depicting Simón Bolívar, Antonio José de Sucre, and other key figures of South American independence

Historical Documents

Original manuscripts, including early constitutions and independence proclamations that shaped Bolivia's political foundation

Colonial Architecture

Beautiful stone courtyards, arched corridors, and period rooms showcasing 17th-century Jesuit architectural style

Independence Artifacts

Personal belongings of independence leaders, period weapons, flags, and ceremonial objects from the liberation era

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Tuesday to Saturday 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM and 2:30 PM - 6:00 PM, Sunday 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, closed Mondays

Tickets & Pricing

Adults: 15 BOB (approximately $2 USD), Students with ID: 5 BOB, Children under 12: free, guided tours available for additional fee

Best Time to Visit

Tuesday through Friday mornings for fewer crowds, avoid major Bolivian holidays when it may be extremely busy or closed

Suggested Duration

1.5 to 2 hours for a thorough visit, including time to read displays and appreciate the architecture

Getting There

Casa de la Libertad is located on Plaza 25 de Mayo in Sucre's historic center, easily accessible on foot from most central hotels. From the main bus terminal, take a taxi (15-20 minutes) or local bus to the city center. The building is directly adjacent to the cathedral and faces the main plaza, making it impossible to miss. If arriving from other cities, Sucre's Juana Azurduy de Padilla Airport is about 30 minutes away by taxi, while long-distance buses arrive at the terminal on the city's outskirts.

Things to Do Nearby

Metropolitan Cathedral
impressive colonial cathedral directly adjacent to Casa de la Libertad, featuring beautiful interior artwork and city views from the bell tower
Recoleta Monastery
Peaceful 17th-century Franciscan monastery with panoramic city views, museums, and tranquil gardens
Textile Museum (ASUR)
Excellent museum showcasing traditional Bolivian textiles and weaving techniques from various indigenous cultures
Parque Cretácico
Unique paleontological park featuring actual dinosaur footprints and fossils discovered in Sucre's limestone cliffs
La Glorieta Castle
Eccentric 19th-century castle built by Bolivian aristocrats, offering guided tours of its unusual architecture and furnishings

Tips & Advice

Bring your passport or ID as it's required for entry, and consider hiring a guide to fully understand the historical significance
Photography may be restricted in certain rooms, so ask permission before taking pictures of documents or artifacts
Visit early in the morning to avoid tour groups and have better lighting for photos in the courtyards
Combine your visit with the adjacent cathedral and other plaza attractions to make the most of your time in the historic center

Tours & Activities at Casa de la Libertad