Worker trapped after medieval tower in Rome partially collapses during renovations
A medieval tower in central Rome partially collapsed on Monday morning during renovation works, leaving at least one worker seriously injured and another trapped under the rubble, according to emergency services.
Firefighters quickly arrived at the Torre dei Conti, deploying three rescue teams and two ladder trucks to assist those caught in the collapse. The area around Via dei Fori Imperiali, a major street connecting the Colosseum to Piazza Venezia, was cordoned off by police as crowds of tourists and onlookers gathered nearby.
The first collapse occurred around 11:30 a.m. local time (10:30 GMT), followed by a second collapse about 90 minutes later while rescuers were on site. The second incident briefly halted rescue operations, though firefighters confirmed their teams were unharmed and resumed efforts shortly after.
Authorities reported that the trapped worker remained responsive, while another was hospitalized but not in life-threatening condition. Two additional workers suffered minor injuries. Regional Governor Francesco Rocca, Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri, and Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli visited the site to oversee the situation.
Built in 1238 by Pope Innocent III, the 29-meter Torre dei Conti is one of Rome’s most historic landmarks. It had been under restoration after years of neglect. Following the incident, Rome prosecutors opened an investigation into the cause of the collapse.
Located just steps from the Colosseum, the Torre dei Conti stands along the bustling Via dei Fori Imperiali, a route frequented daily by thousands of tourists exploring the Eternal City’s ancient heart.
