Now it’s hard to believe that there are places where people still pray to the ancient gods and perform rituals with sacrifices. However, there are such places in different countries. For example, in the Mexican city of San Cristobal or the Guatemalan city of Chichicastenango. Even though most Guatemalans commit to the Catholic faith, it is as simple as in ancient times. You can find cults of ancient Indian gods in local temples. There is one Catholic shrine where you can find both a classical Catholic with a Bible in his hands and the local chuchkajaues, burning incense on the steps of the temple. It is the Church of Santo Tomás.

The religious building was built in 1540. St. Thomas was considered the patron of the small Guatemalan city of Chichicastenango. So locals decided to name the new shrine in his honor. Previously, this area was a place of worship of the gods: there were shrines of the ancient Maya civilization. The new building was erected on a preserved foundation, while its design reflected the colonial architectural style of those years. Outside, the entire temple is covered with white stucco.

The steps of the church leading to the main entrance as well as the endless staircases of ancient pyramids correspond to the days and months of the Mayan calendar. In total, there are 18 steps, i.e. 18 months, each of which consisted of 20 days. Every day, going up the stairs to the church, you can see how the multi-colored candles of its parishioners are burning. Some religious ceremonies take place right on the steps: a sacred altar with a burning fire is set up in front of the stairs. So the chuchkajaues can incense all the faithful, chant the gods, and sometimes sacrifice chickens or pigeons. Besides, on shopping days in the market square, a real flower market is held on the steps of the church. So everyone can decorate the holy place with the petals of beautiful flowers.