When the locust plagues attacked the crops of the Yucatecans, the neighbors of what is now the San Juan neighborhood promised Saint John the Baptist to build a temple for him if he granted them relief from these threats. When they recovered their fields, those devout people set out to fulfill their promise and built a small chapel in honor of the saint who had returned their fields to them. However, shortly thereafter, a severe famine struck the city, which led the inhabitants to reaffirm their faith in that saint who had given them back their livelihood, and to ask for his help in recovering their food supply as well. Thus, they proceeded to expand the small chapel into the majestic temple that we know today.

Inside, there is a fountain called "La Negrita." To the south side of the church, there originally was a bullring that operated until 1910 when it was replaced by a small plaza, with a statue of Benito Juárez at its center. Behind the church, you can find the sacristy and a small area that used to serve as accommodation for visitors.

In front of the entrance, there is a colorful park with playgrounds, benches, a fountain, and even, thanks to the municipal council, there is wireless internet service, power charging stations, and small booths that are ideal for comfortably navigating the internet.

This church is located about three blocks from the main square of the City of Mérida. Moreover, there are various urban routes accessible from its sides to different parts of the capital and even the state.

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