Independence Museum of Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz de la Sierra

The Independence Museum of Santa Cruz (Museo de la Independencia) offers visitors a compact but engaging glimpse into the city’s pivotal role in Bolivia’s struggle for independence. Housed in the lower level of the historic Brigada Parlamentaria building-adjacent to the cathedral and near the Manzana Uno art gallery-it was established in 2010 by the Society of Geographic and Historical Studies to honor the contributions of Santa Cruz citizens toward the nation’s liberation.

Inside, you’ll find several thoughtfully arranged rooms, each designed to immerse you in the narrative of the independence era. The Sala Capitular recreates the historic town-hall style meeting where local leaders resolved to wrest control of their city, while the Sala de los Gobernadores features displays that chronicle shifting authorities during the independence struggle. Additional rooms-planned to expand over time-are devoted to key battles like El Pari, La Florida, Santa Bárbara, and Ingavi, with rich displays of documents, clothing, jewelry, and period artifacts.

For tourists exploring the historic heart of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, the museum is a must-see: modest in scale but rich in storytelling. We recommend pairing your visit with a stroll through the Plaza 24 de Septiembre, where you can admire the colonial architecture of the cathedral, sample local cuisine, and explore nearby cultural sights like the Regional History Museum or the Manzana Uno gallery.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about Bolivia’s path to independence, the Independence Museum offers a poignant, well-curated experience. It’s best enjoyed as part of a leisurely cultural walk through the center, each artifact helping bring to life the courageous spirit of the cruceños who shaped Bolivia’s destiny.