August 19, 2008

I have discovered another Bolivian jewel, Sucre.  It is the official capital of Bolivia and is only 4 hours south of Aiquile making it a much more convenient regional city and leisure spot.  It is a cloud city, built high upon the rounded mountains of the Andes overlooking a dry river bed during the winter months and the rage of heavenly tears during the summer.  
I came to know Sucre when Jasmine and I had to be 'rescued' from site 2 weeks ago. We were trapped in Aiquile because of blockades on the road leading to Cochabamba and the same road opposite direction to Sucre.  Teachers were protesting and blockading passages across the entire country in the name of higher wages and a fair retirement pension. As of the moment the government has called a 45 day truce to try and mend the problem.  
Sucre is a cultural hub for music, art, and history. I am told some of the best museums in the country are located here.  Artifacts and mummies from the Incan and Pre-Incan cultures are displayed in pristine condition.
My charango teacher travels to Sucre every weekend for performances and jam sessions with the country’s most talented charango players. I am hoping to catch a show this weekend if I arrive in time.  I am trying to learn from the best in preparation for my own debut for the Charango festival here in Aiquile.
Upon entering the city you pass a giant erect wall where the land had been pushed up and together some years ago.  On the wall are dinosaur footprints leading up to the top.  There are various sets of tracks from different dinosaurs that roamed these lands millions of years ago. Que increible!
The plaza at the center of the city is covered with beautiful trees, palms, flowers, and statues.  It is a safe place to relax, people watch, read a book, or chat with a friend.  The square surrounding the plaza is full of little cafes, restaurants, and shops.  The giant courthouse and government building tower over the plaza as well and busy city officials can be seen coming and going.  I hope to be exploring more of Sucre and enjoying all the gems she has to offer.