Government Palace Palacio Quemado La Paz
The historic 'Burnt Palace,' former presidential residence, now a landmark on Plaza Murillo known for its stately architecture and hourly guard change...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Witness the guard change spectacle
Government Palace Palacio Quemado La Paz
Best Time
Witness the guard change spectacle
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The historic 'Burnt Palace,' former presidential residence, now a landmark on Plaza Murillo known for its stately architecture and hourly guard change.
"Interesting building and fun to see the changing of the guards that happen each hour."
🎯 Hourly Guard Change
Don't miss the changing of the guards, happening precisely every hour. Arrive a few minutes early! :guards:
📸 Photo Opportunity
It's a great spot for a photo op, especially with the surrounding historic buildings. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Changing of the Guards
Palacio Quemado Entrance
Witness a precise and ceremonial hourly spectacle of the presidential guard change.
Stately Architecture
Exterior of the Palace
Admire the dignified facade of the former presidential residence, a key landmark on Plaza Murillo.
Plaza Murillo Setting
Plaza Murillo
Experience the palace as part of the historic heart of La Paz, alongside the Cathedral and legislative building.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Hourly Guard Change
Don't miss the changing of the guards, happening precisely every hour. Arrive a few minutes early! :guards:
📸 Photo Opportunity
It's a great spot for a photo op, especially with the surrounding historic buildings. :camerawithflash:
📍 Plaza Murillo Location
Located on Plaza Murillo, combine your visit with the Cathedral and Legislative Palace. :world_map:
🏛️ Historical Significance
Learn about its history as the 'Burnt Palace' and former presidential residence. :scroll:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Hourly Guard Change
Don't miss the changing of the guards, happening precisely every hour. Arrive a few minutes early! :guards:
📸 Photo Opportunity
It's a great spot for a photo op, especially with the surrounding historic buildings. :camerawithflash:
📍 Plaza Murillo Location
Located on Plaza Murillo, combine your visit with the Cathedral and Legislative Palace. :world_map:
🏛️ Historical Significance
Learn about its history as the 'Burnt Palace' and former presidential residence. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Palacio Quemado an interesting historical building, particularly appreciating the hourly changing of the guards as a spectacle. While noted as not the grandest palace, its stately architecture and location on Plaza Murillo make it a worthwhile stop for photos and a glimpse into Bolivia's presidential past.
"The Palacio Quemado earned its nickname of the "Burnt Palace" in 1875, when it was badly damaged during a violent revolution. It was the official residence of President from 1853 to 2018 and again briefly from 2019 to 2020. The change of the guards is every hour and you can have a nice spectacle."
antonios varzakis
"Interesting building and fun to see the changing of the guards that happen each hour."
Brock Simon
"Also known as Palacio Quemado, it was the official residence of the President of Bolivia from 1853 to 2018 and then from 2019 to 2020. It is located in downtown La Paz on Plaza Murillo, next to the La Paz Cathedral and across from the Bolivian legislature. Stately architecture"
CK Cheong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Government Palace, Palacio Quemado, is centrally located on Plaza Murillo in downtown La Paz. It's easily accessible by taxi or public transport (minibus/micro). Many visitors walk to it if staying in the city center. :bus: :taxi:
Yes, Plaza Murillo is a well-known central square in La Paz, often considered the heart of the city's administrative and historical district. :map:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need tickets to view the exterior of the Government Palace and witness the changing of the guards. Access to the plaza is free. :ticket:
While the palace itself may have restricted access, the exterior and Plaza Murillo are generally accessible during daylight hours. The changing of the guards occurs hourly. :clock:
Public access inside the Government Palace is typically limited. Visitors usually admire its architecture from the outside and observe the guard change ceremony. :door:
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed of the exterior of the Government Palace and the surrounding Plaza Murillo. Be respectful of any official ceremonies or personnel. :camerawithflash:
Morning light can be beautiful for photographing the palace's facade. The hourly guard change also provides dynamic photo opportunities. :sunrise:
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Palacio Quemado earned its nickname after being severely damaged during a revolution in 1875. It has since been restored. :fire:
Plaza Murillo is the historical and political center of La Paz, home to the Government Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the National Congress. :flag_bo:
Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour, primarily to see the changing of the guards and take photos of the exterior and plaza. :stopwatch:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the 'Burnt Palace'
Today, while no longer the primary presidential residence, the Palacio Quemado remains a significant landmark on Plaza Murillo. Its enduring presence, juxtaposed with its dramatic past, makes it a compelling site for visitors interested in Bolivian history and politics. The building's resilience is a testament to its importance in the nation's narrative.
Experiencing the Changing of the Guards
To get the best view, it's recommended to arrive a few minutes before the hour. While the ceremony is not as elaborate as some in European capitals, it's a proud display of Bolivian tradition and a highlight for many tourists. The guards' stoic demeanor and synchronized movements make for a memorable photo opportunity and a glimpse into the country's ceremonial protocols. :guards: :camerawithflash:
Social
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