Larry Memmott's Blog

Laja was founded as La Paz on October 20, 1548 by Alonso de Mendoza.  It lasted for three days, as the city was transferred to its current location on October 23.  Laja remained an important location and the first cathedral in Bolivia was built in the mid-17th century.  It is an imposing stone building with two bell towers.

A short stop in Laja is certainly worthwhile.  See the monument to the founding of La Paz in the center of the plaza and, if you are lucky, maybe you can get in to see the interior of the church (I have not seen it.)

Laja is a nice stop on the way to or from Tiwanaku.  For directions and other interesting sites in the area, check out Tiwanaku, Colonial Churches and Natural Arches.