5.1-Magnitude Earthquake Damages 16th-Century Church in Peru

On July 18, a 5.1-magnitude earthquake hit Peru's Junín region, causing extensive damage to the 16th-century Iglesia Apóstol Santiago in Chongos Bajo. This colonial church, constructed during the tenure of Spanish viceroy Francisco de Toledo, lost its roof and part of its façade. The adjacent plaza's carved stone cross, known as Our Lord of the Cani Cruz, also fell, resulting in a broken arm. As a cultural heritage site, the church, which accommodates about 300 worshippers, is vital to the local community, drawing pilgrims nationwide. The 30m-tall belltower, made of brick and cement, faces collapse. Damaged altars with antique images may be restored, while the nearby Capilla del Copón chapel experienced a wall collapse that crushed an altar. Parish priest Ricardo Ocharán has initiated a fundraising effort via the Archdiocese of Huancayo, with roof repairs estimated at over $400,000. The Ministry of Culture, under Minister Fátima Apícstlabás, is dispatching technicians from Lima for emergency aid before August rains. The earthquake also devastated Pumpunya, resulting in five fatalities. In mourning, the parish has canceled the patron saint feast set for July 25. It remains uncertain if the incoming administration of president-elect Keiko Fujimori, assuming office on July 28, will prioritize restoration efforts.