Freedom House Travel Guide

Casa de la Libertad stands as a monument to Bolivia's fight for independence. Originally constructed in 1621 as part of the Jesuit University of San Francisco Xavier, the building served as a chapel and the university's main hall. In 1825, it became the site where the Declaration of Independence was signed, forever changing the course of Bolivian history. Bolivia’s first constitution was also drafted here.The building itself is an architectural gem of the viceregal period. The museum is located in the old single-story cloister and is surrounded by galleries and granite columns that support the roof. Architectural highlights include the huge, native cedar door studded with bronze nails and featuring big knockers, as well as the Independence Hall with its carved and gilded Hispanic and American Native choir.Inside, visitors can explore the historic hall where the Declaration of Independence was signed and view the original document. The museum also displays portraits of key figures like Simón Bolívar and Antonio José de Sucre, along with artifacts related to Bolivian presidents and other national heroes. The Macha flag, considered a sacred symbol by Argentinians and Bolivians, is housed in a chapel-shaped alcove.A visit to Casa de la Libertad offers a glimpse into Bolivia's political history and the struggles and triumphs of its early leaders.