Chichicastenango – Santo Tomas church

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Built in 1540, the church of Santo Tomas, situated next to the market, was built on a Mayan ceremonial platform and has 18 stairs that lead up to the church representing one for every month of the Mayan calendar year. On market days, many traders of candles and flowers can be found on the steps.

The church practises a mixture of Catholic and indigenous Mayan beliefs with Shamans still using the church for their rituals, burning incense and candles and in special cases offering a chicken to the gods.

Please note that you should not enter through the main doors, as this means walking up the Mayan Ceremonial steps that are considered sacred. Instead, use the side door to the right of the building.

It is also considered inappropriate to take photographs inside the building. 

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