Archdiocese of Sucre
The Diocese of Sucre, a metropolitan archdiocese of the Latin Rite, is an active archdiocese in Bolivia. Established in the sixteenth century, it serves as the metropolitan see for several suffragan dioceses in the central region of the country. Led by Archbishop Ricardo Centellas Guzmán since 2020, the archdiocese maintains a central role in the Ecclesiastical Province of Sucre and supports Catholic life across its territory. A notable aspect is its historic cathedral, which has stood as a focal point for faith and culture since colonial times. Stored in Cargo: Archdiocese of Sucre
| Diocese: Archdiocese of Sucre | |
| Status: | Active |
| Rite: | Latin |
| Type: | Archdiocese |
| Ecclesiastical Province: | Province of Sucre |
| Suffragan Dioceses: | Diocese of Potosí; Diocese of Tarija; Territorial Prelature of Aiquile |
| Country: | Bolivia |
| Region: | Chuquisaca Department |
| Bishop: | Ricardo Centellas Guzmán |
| Website: | https://www.arquidiocesisdesucre.org/ |
| Existence: | 1552– |
| Rating: | 3.5 |
| Chancery Address: | Plaza 25 de Mayo, Sucre, Bolivia |
Establishment
The Archdiocese of Sucre was erected as the Diocese of La Plata on 27 June 1552 by Pope Julius III to serve the growing Catholic population in the region of Upper Peru. It was later renamed the Diocese of Sucre and elevated to the status of metropolitan archdiocese on 20 October 1924.
History
The see originated during the Spanish colonial period as one of the earliest dioceses in South America. Its territory was reduced over the centuries through the creation of new dioceses, including those of Potosí and Tarija. The archdiocese has remained active without suppression or merger.
Geography
The archdiocese covers the Chuquisaca Department in central Bolivia and forms part of the Ecclesiastical Province of Sucre.
Mother Church
The Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Sucre serves as the mother church of the archdiocese.
Leadership
Current Bishop
Archbishop Ricardo Centellas Guzmán has served as metropolitan archbishop since 2020.
Auxiliary Bishops
None currently.
Past Bishops
| Name | Tenure | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tomás de San Martín | 1552–1559 | First bishop; Dominican friar. |
| Fernando de Santillán | 1562–1568 | Transferred to Lima. |
| (subsequent bishops listed in full on Catholic-Hierarchy.org and diocesan records) |
Theological and Cultural Orientation
The archdiocese maintains a balanced orientation (rating 3.5), with standard liturgical practices and equal emphasis on traditional teachings and community outreach.
Statistics
The archdiocese serves a Catholic population across its territory in the Chuquisaca Department.
Religious Communities
Religious orders active in the archdiocese include various congregations engaged in education and pastoral ministry.
Parishes
The archdiocese comprises numerous parishes throughout its territory.
Mission and Services
Catholic Education
The archdiocese supports Catholic schools in Sucre and surrounding areas.
Community Outreach
Catholic Charities and similar programs provide social services in the region.
Notable Events or Figures
- The see has been associated with early evangelization efforts in the Andes region.
Dynamic content
Associated saints
No saints yet.
Religious orders
No religious orderes categorized yet.
Diocesan photos
No results
References
External Links
- Official website
- [Cathedral information via diocesan site]