Mexico City’s 2nd oldest church burns amid homeless takeover

Authorities promised Monday to erect a barricade around Mexico City’s second oldest church after a weekend fire damaged the tower, choir, an organ and stained glass.

One homeless person was rescued from the fire at the Santa Veracruz church and the Archdiocese of Mexico noted the church had been broken into by homeless people “several times” in the week before the Saturday night blaze.

City authorities said Monday the church wouldn’t be declared off-limits, but would have more protection and get a restoration.

The structure dates back to 1567, though . . .