La Paz, officially known as Nuestra Señora de La Paz, is the seat of government and the de facto capital city of the Plurinational State of Bolivia, while the constitutional capital is Sucre. La Paz is situated roughly in the center-west of the country and is part of the La Paz Department. It is located at an elevation of approximately 3,650 meters (11,975 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest capital cities in the world. The city sits in a valley surrounded by the high mountains of the altiplano, and due to its elevation, it features a subtropical highland climate with cool, sometimes cold temperatures year-round. The city's dramatic topography, which includes the stunning Illimani Mountain as a backdrop, has made it a popular destination for both tourism and photography. Additionally, the city's terrain influences its architecture and urban layout, with neighborhoods connected by a network of bridges, stairways, and roads that navigate the steep slopes. La Paz was founded on October 20, 1548, by the Spanish conquistadors, and its full original name was 'La Ciudad de Nuestra Señora de La Paz' (The City of Our Lady of Peace) commemorating the end of the civil wars in Peru. Over the centuries, it has been the site of many important events in Bolivian history, including key moments in the struggle for independence from Spain and subsequent political upheavals. Culturally, La Paz is a melting pot of indigenous, mestizo, and European influences. This is reflected in its rich cultural life that includes music, dance, folk traditions, and cuisine that draw on a blend of pre-Columbian and colonial heritage. The indigenous Aymara and Quechua cultures are particularly influential, which is evident in the widespread use of the languages, traditional dress seen throughout the city, and in festivals such as Alasitas and the Gran Poder. Economically, La Paz is an important center for commerce, finance, and industry within Bolivia. It is home to several markets, including the famous Witches' Market where traditional Andean metaphysical and folk remedies are sold. Demographically, the city has a population that reflects its cultural range, with a majority of residents being of indigenous or mestizo descent, and it continues to grow as people from rural areas move to the city in search of better opportunities. Educationally, La Paz houses some of the finest universities and research institutions in the country, like the Universidad Mayor de San Andrés (UMSA). Politically, La Paz has a significant influence on national affairs, hosting the government's executive and legislative branches. The Palacio Quemado, or Burned Palace, is the governmental palace and the seat of the President of Bolivia. In conclusion, La Paz is a city of stark contrasts, from its high-altitude setting and climate to its mix of colonial and modern architectures, and its diverse social fabric. It continues to be an epicenter of Bolivian culture, politics, and economics, with a history as rich and varied as the cultures that comprise it. While it faces challenges typical of urban centers including infrastructure stresses and economic inequality, its cultural significance, natural beauty, and historical importance make it a unique and fascinating city.