Iglesia de Santo Tomás, Western Highlands Travel Guide

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Explore the Iglesia de Santo Tomás in Chichicastenango, where Mayan traditions meet Catholic heritage in a vibrant cultural tapestry.

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Iglesia de Santo Tomás

The Iglesia de Santo Tomás in Chichicastenango is a 16th-century church built atop a pre-Columbian temple platform, creating a unique blend of Catholic and Mayan traditions. The church is a central point in the town, especially during market days.

A brief summary to Iglesia de Santo Tomás

WVRQ+QGC, 5a Avenida, Chichicastenango, GT

Monday 6 am-6 pm
Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
Thursday 6 am-6 pm
Friday 6 am-6 pm
Saturday 6 am-6 pm
Sunday 6 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Iglesia de Santo Tomás.

Visit on Thursdays or Sundays to experience the vibrant market surrounding the church.
Dress modestly when visiting the church to respect local customs.
Photography is prohibited inside the church.

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Explore Iglesia de Santo Tomás on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Iglesia de Santo Tomás, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

The Iglesia de Santo Tomás is located in the heart of Chichicastenango, easily accessible on foot from most points within the town. From the central plaza, the church is directly visible. As Chichicastenango is compact, walking is generally the most convenient way to reach the church. Be aware that the area around the church can get crowded, especially on market days.
Public Transport

If arriving in Chichicastenango by bus, you will likely be dropped off near the town center. From there, the Iglesia de Santo Tomás is a short walk away. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also available around the central plaza for a small fare (Q5-Q15), if you prefer not to walk.

Discover more about Iglesia de Santo Tomás

The Iglesia de Santo Tomás, dating back to the mid-16th century, is located in the main plaza of Chichicastenango. Constructed by the Spanish atop a pre-existing Maya temple platform around 1545, the church embodies a fascinating blend of Catholic and indigenous Maya traditions. The 18 steps leading up to the church each represent a month in the Mayan calendar, and are still venerated. K'iche' Maya priests continue to use the church for rituals, burning incense and candles. Inside, offerings of corn, flowers, and drinks are common.The church is dedicated to Saint Thomas the Apostle. The building's architecture reflects its colonial-era origins. Inside the church, photography is prohibited. The church is a focal point of Chichicastenango, particularly on Thursdays and Sundays, which are the town's market days.Just a short distance from the church is the Cofradía of Pascual Abaj, an ancient carved stone also venerated by Maya priests, where they perform rituals. According to writings on the stone, it details the doings of a king named Tohil.