Few visit Cochabamba without spending several hours in the area surrounding Plaza 14 de Septiembre. The city’s main square attracts visitors and locals who come to people-watch, discuss politics and eat in the many restaurants that surround the square. The square is named after the date that the city became independent from Spain. Overlooked by the city’s cathedral and within walking distance of many other churches, the square is often filled with the sounds of religious texts. Visit the square to admire the surrounding colonial architecture, to eat tumbo ice cream from street vendors or simply to watch people go by.
Arrive at the square on foot to explore the surrounding streets. At the heart of what many Bolivians consider to be the nation’s culinary capital, these streets are studded with restaurants serving international cuisine and local dishes inspired by the valley’s indigenous culture and Spanish heritage. Sit down at a restaurant for a formal meal or continue to Plaza 14 de Septiembre to purchase snacks from a street vendor.
The city’s year-round warm weather means that ice cream is always a welcome choice, even in the depths of winter. Try tumbo-flavored ice cream, made with the jungle fruit referred to as banana passion fruit. Relax in front of the Fountain of the Three Graces as you enjoy your treat. Gaze at the tall Heroes Column commemorating Bolivian revolutionaries.
Meet locals and fellow travelers at the square. Plaza 14 de Septiembre, while laid-back, is always full of characters and is ideal for practicing Spanish. While political demonstrations have been banned from the square, there is always someone willing to engage in a political discussion, along with a number of religious preachers. After listening to the word of God, continue exploring the city to reach the nearby Santo Domino and San Francisco churches and the Convent of Santa Teresa.
Plaza 14 de Septiembre is well served by taxi and minibus. Find many of the city’s key attractions within walking distance of the square. There is no fee for admission and the square remains open at all times.
