The Church of San Juan Chamula is located in the large town square, where the most important events take place, such as the market, elections, political meetings and religious ceremonies. The church is sober, with a large wooden gate that is only fully opened on the feast of San Juan. Everything is guarded by the mayoles or policemen, who carry a white cotton cloak made of thick wool and a wooden mallet as hard as iron. Visitors are not allowed to take photographs. Access to the interior of the church is regulated and a fee must be paid to enter.