Palm trees and elegant, classically styled buildings line Plaza 24 de Septiembre, situated in the heart of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. This square is a tropical, green space with an enticingly slow pace of life. Take lots of time to wander around the square, stopping by the public art and visiting the cathedral that faces the plaza.
Find out about Ignacio Warnes, a revolutionary hero commemorated by one of the statues in the square. Warnes lived during the Independence War, which started in 1810 and led to Santa Cruz gaining autonomy from Spain. The plaza is named after this momentous victory.
Walk around the edge of the square, passing architecture that recalls the Spanish occupation. The colonial buildings hint at the city’s past, while the center of the square, renovated in 2005, is a symbol of modern Santa Cruz.
Listen out for camba bands playing music in the square. Take a seat on one of the many benches on shady walkways and watch the locals go about their daily lives. Play chess with one of Santa Cruz’s citizens or watch movies at the cinema next to the square.
Visit San Lorenzo Cathedral, which is impossible to miss with its pair of impressive red-brick clock towers. Step inside to explore a small museum dedicated to sacred art. Climb a clock tower for views of the plaza. At the other end of the square is the mayor’s office and the city council buildings.
Stay long into the evening. The locals, or “cruceños,” will linger here for hours either playing music or simply enjoying the atmosphere.
Parque Arenal is less than a 10-minute walk from the square. Go to the park to enjoy a boating lagoon and a museum or to find further places to relax.
Plaza 24 de Septiembre is one of the social and geographical hubs of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. The city is arranged in concentric circles, with the plaza in the middle. Ride a bus to one of the nearby streets then walk to the square.
