Devastating fire in Barrios Altos consumes old quinta, affecting 10 families in downtown Lima

A fierce code-three fire erupted early Tuesday morning in the historic Barrios Altos district of Lima, consuming ten homes within the Quinta Virgen de la Puerta and displacing approximately 60 residents. The blaze, which started around 1:40 a.m. on June 9, spread rapidly through the old construction, characterized by vulnerable structures and roofs.

Thirteen units from the General Corps of Volunteer Firefighters of Peru battled the flames for several hours to bring the situation under control. Fortunately, authorities confirmed no fatalities or injuries, although some residents experienced smoke inhalation while attempting to rescue belongings and family members. The quinta, an old residential complex, suffered complete destruction of five homes on each side.

Following the fire's extinguishment, municipal personnel assessed the damage. Specialists declared the quinta structurally unsound and uninhabitable due to the extensive damage and risk of collapse. The Metropolitan Municipality of Lima is coordinating humanitarian support, including food distribution and temporary housing arrangements for the affected families.

The fire's cause is currently under investigation by the National Police, who have secured the area. Concerns have also been raised about the adjacent Colegio República de Guatemala, a school for young children, which sustained damage to its patio awning and experienced flooding from firefighting efforts. A technical inspection will determine the school's safety and readiness for resuming classes.

“

There are about 60 homes; 10 of them have been affected. We have not had any reports of people affected.