The Supreme Court in La Paz, Bolivia, sentences former dictator Luis García Meza to 30 years in jail without parole for murder, theft, fraud and violating the constitution.

La Paz, officially christened Nuestra Señora de La Paz, which beautifully translates to "Our Lady of Peace" in English, and known as Chuqi Yapu in the indigenous Aymara language, stands as the vibrant and undeniable seat of government, as well as the legislative and executive capital, of the Plurinational State of Bolivia. Perched dramatically in the heart of west-central Bolivia, this captivating city, with an estimated 816,044 residents as of 2020, ranks as the nation's third-most populous urban center. Its expansive metropolitan area, a bustling conglomerate encompassing La Paz itself, El Alto, Achocalla, Viacha, and Mecapaca, forms Bolivia's second-largest urban agglomeration, boasting a population of approximately 2.0 million and trailing only Santa Cruz de la Sierra's 2.3 million. Beyond its political and demographic significance, La Paz also proudly serves as the capital of its namesake department.

The Heart of Bolivia: La Paz

Often perceived as the beating heart of Bolivia, La Paz, formally known as Nuestra Señora de La Paz and locally as Chuqi Yapu in Aymara, is far more than just a city; it is the nation’s governmental nucleus. This remarkable urban center serves as the official seat of government, housing both the legislative and executive branches of the Plurinational State of Bolivia. While its individual city population, estimated at 816,044 residents in 2020, places it as the third most populous in Bolivia, its broader metropolitan area truly highlights its urban sprawl and influence. This vast conurbation, comprising La Paz, El Alto, Achocalla, Viacha, and Mecapaca, collectively forms the country’s second most populous urban expanse, home to roughly 2.0 million people, positioning it just behind the metropolitan area of Santa Cruz de la Sierra which hosts approximately 2.3 million residents. Furthermore, La Paz holds the distinguished title of being the capital of the La Paz Department, solidifying its administrative importance.

Geographical Marvel and Climate

Nestled in west-central Bolivia, approximately 68 kilometers (42 miles) southeast of the majestic Lake Titicaca, La Paz presents a truly unparalleled geographical spectacle. The city is dramatically carved into a deep canyon, meticulously sculpted over millennia by the Choqueyapu River. This unique setting creates a striking bowl-like depression, forming part of the vast Amazon basin, and is dramatically encircled by the imposing, high-altitude peaks of the Altiplano. Dominating the city's skyline is the awe-inspiring, triple-peaked Mount Illimani, its summits perpetually crowned with snow, offering a breathtaking and iconic backdrop visible from countless vantage points throughout the city. At an astonishing average elevation of roughly 3,650 meters (11,975 feet) above sea level, La Paz proudly holds the distinction of being the highest capital city in the entire world. This extreme altitude results in an unusual and fascinating subtropical highland climate, characterized by distinct rainy summers, which bring vital moisture, and crisp, dry winters, often bathed in brilliant sunshine.

A Tapestry of History

The rich narrative of La Paz began on October 20, 1548, when the Spanish conquistador Captain Alonso de Mendoza established the settlement. Initially founded at the site of an existing Inca settlement known as Laja, its strategic location was chosen to serve as a crucial connecting point along the vital commercial routes that crisscrossed the Andes, linking the lucrative mining centers of Potosí and Oruro with the colonial administrative hub of Lima. The city's full original name, Nuestra Señora de La Paz, meaning "Our Lady of Peace," was a deliberate and profound commemoration of the restoration of peace after a tumultuous period. This period saw the significant insurrection led by Gonzalo Pizarro and his fellow conquistadors against the authority of the first viceroy of Peru, a conflict that deeply unsettled the nascent colonial administration. Later, for practical and defensive reasons, the city was relocated from Laja to its present, more protected valley location, known then as Chuquiago Marka. Throughout its early centuries, La Paz thrived under Spanish colonial rule, forming an integral part of the vast Viceroyalty of the Río de la Plata, until Bolivia ultimately achieved its hard-won independence. The city's history is also marked by numerous significant revolts, reflecting a persistent spirit of resistance. A pivotal moment occurred in 1781 when the indigenous leader and fierce independence activist, Túpac Katari, courageously laid siege to the city for an arduous six months, a powerful but ultimately unsuccessful bid for liberation. Decades later, on July 16, 1809, the Bolivian patriot Pedro Domingo Murillo ignited a fervent revolution for independence right here in La Paz, a spark that is widely considered to have marked the true beginning of the broader Spanish American Wars of Independence, ultimately leading to the freedom of numerous South American states by 1821.

Governing and Economic Powerhouse

As the undisputed seat of government for Bolivia, La Paz is the epicenter of the nation's political life. It is home to the venerable Palacio Quemado, historically the presidential palace, and also hosts the Plurinational Legislative Assembly, where the country's laws are debated and enacted. Numerous other essential government departments and agencies are also headquartered within the city, making it the de facto administrative capital. It's important to note, however, that while La Paz handles the executive and legislative functions, the constitutional capital of Bolivia, Sucre, gracefully retains the judicial power, highlighting Bolivia's unique dual-capital system. Reflecting its international standing, La Paz proudly hosts all foreign embassies and international diplomatic missions within the country. Beyond its political clout, La Paz serves as a crucial administrative, economic, and sports hub for Bolivia. Its economic prowess is significant, contributing an impressive 24% to the nation's Gross Domestic Product, and it acts as the headquarters for a multitude of prominent Bolivian companies and diverse industries, driving much of the country's commerce and innovation.

Cultural Vibrancy and Modern Appeal

La Paz transcends its political and economic roles to stand as a vital cultural center within Latin America, offering a rich tapestry of history, tradition, and contemporary life. The city boasts an array of cherished landmarks dating back to its colonial era, including the magnificent San Francisco Church, the grand Metropolitan Cathedral, the historically significant Plaza Murillo—a focal point for civic life and protest—and the charming, cobblestone Jaén Street, renowned for its well-preserved colonial architecture and museums. Visitors are often captivated by La Paz's unique and bustling markets, none more famous than the intriguing Witches' Market (Mercado de las Brujas), where traditional remedies, folk medicine, and spiritual items are sold, offering a glimpse into Aymara beliefs. The city also pulsates with a vibrant nightlife, providing diverse entertainment options. Its extraordinary topography, characterized by dramatic elevation changes and a stunning natural setting, provides unparalleled panoramic views of the city and the towering peaks of the Cordillera Real from numerous natural viewing points. A testament to its innovative spirit and unique urban challenges, La Paz is home to the world's largest urban cable car network, Mi Teleférico, which provides essential public transport while offering breathtaking aerial vistas. In a global recognition of its distinct charm and significance, La Paz was officially recognized in May 2015 as one of the New 7 Wonders Cities, an honor shared with other distinguished global cities such as Beirut, Doha, Durban, Havana, Kuala Lumpur, and Vigan. Further underscoring its international importance, La Paz is listed on the Global Cities Index 2015 and is categorized as a "Gamma" type global city by the Globalization and World Cities Research Network (GaWC), acknowledging its role in the global network of cities.

Historical Footnotes: A Native Son

Among the notable figures associated with La Paz's history is Luis García Meza Tejada (1929–2018). Born in La Paz, he was a career military officer who rose through the ranks during the dictatorship of Hugo Banzer. He later served as the de facto 57th President of Bolivia from 1980 to 1981, a period marked by his leadership of a violent coup and subsequent conviction for human rights violations.

Frequently Asked Questions about La Paz

What is the official name of La Paz?
The city's official name is Nuestra Señora de La Paz, meaning "Our Lady of Peace." It is also known as Chuqi Yapu in Aymara.
Why is La Paz considered the highest capital city in the world?
La Paz is situated at an average elevation of approximately 3,650 meters (11,975 feet) above sea level, making it the highest capital city globally.
Is La Paz the only capital of Bolivia?
Bolivia has a unique dual-capital system. La Paz serves as the seat of government, housing the executive and legislative branches, making it the de facto capital. However, Sucre remains the constitutional capital and retains the judicial power.
What is the significance of the Witches' Market in La Paz?
The Witches' Market (Mercado de las Brujas) is a unique cultural attraction where indigenous Aymara vendors sell traditional remedies, folk medicine ingredients, and spiritual items, offering insight into local beliefs and practices.
How does La Paz's geography impact the city?
La Paz is dramatically set in a canyon and surrounded by high mountains of the Altiplano, including the iconic Illimani. This topography creates unique views, diverse microclimates within the city, and has necessitated innovative infrastructure like the world's largest urban cable car network, Mi Teleférico.
When was La Paz founded?
La Paz was founded on October 20, 1548, by Spanish conquistador Captain Alonso de Mendoza.
What is the metropolitan area of La Paz?
The La Paz metropolitan area includes La Paz, El Alto, Achocalla, Viacha, and Mecapaca, forming Bolivia's second most populous urban area with approximately 2.0 million residents.