San Juan de Chamula is one of the most interesting places in the region. Although the exterior doesn't look like much on first impression, the church at San Juan de Chamula is unlike any other. Nothing preapres you for the surreal goings-on inside: to see it really is to believe it. The locals banished the priest about 30 years ago because his Catholic teachings didn't allow for any of their traditional religious beliefs, and now their pagan rituals are practiced inside the church. Inside, the floor is covered with fresh pine needles and Coca-Cola bottles. Locals gather around candles on the floor (there are no pews) sacrificing chickens,
rubbing eggs on each other and drinking Coca-Cola. Tourists are allowed to enter the church, but photography is strictly forbidden and can lead to severe penalties.

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San Juan de Chamula Guide

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Where to go in Mexico

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Where to go in Mexico

Off the Beaten Track in Mexico: San Juan Chamula

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Off the Beaten Track in Mexico: San Juan Chamula

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Chichén Itzá / / Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve / San Juan de Chamula / Palenque / Day of the Dead Celebrations / Zapotec Ruins of Monte Alban / Yaxchilan & Bonampak / Tulum / Teotihuacan Pyramids / Colonial Cities