Rome Tower Collapse: Worker Rescued After Medieval Structure Partially Crumbles

A construction worker was dramatically rescued on Monday after a partial collapse of the historic Torre dei Conti in Rome. The medieval tower, undergoing renovation near the Roman Forum, crumbled around midday. Firefighters launched a complex mission to free the trapped man from the debris.

Rome’s mayor confirmed the injured worker was hospitalized. The incident sent a thick cloud of dust into the air near the Colosseum, a major tourist area. According to the Associated Press, the worker remained conscious while trapped under the rubble.

Rescue Operation and Immediate Aftermath

The rescue was a prolonged and delicate effort. Rome Prefect Lamberto Giannini praised the firefighters’ work. He stated they managed to shield the worker before a second partial collapse occurred about ninety minutes later.

This second collapse involved the stairwell and roof. It sent more billowing dust over the site. One worker, a 67-year-old named Ottaviano, escaped via a balcony. He told reporters he just wanted to go home, his uniform covered in white dust.

Three other workers were evacuated earlier. One was reported to be in critical condition. The trapped worker was identified as a Romanian national. His country’s foreign ministry confirmed he was conscious throughout the ordeal.

Historic Tower’s Structural Integrity Under Scrutiny

The Torre dei Conti is a landmark dating from the 13th century. Its restoration was funded by the European Union. Work involved asbestos removal and was nearly complete.

Rome’s Cultural Heritage directorate said the collapse affected a buttress and the base. An initial analysis had deemed the site safe for renovations to proceed. The incident will likely prompt a serious investigation into the building’s stability and the renovation process.

The collapse also sparked an international diplomatic dispute. A Russian spokeswoman made an unsupported link between the accident and Italy’s support for Ukraine. Italy’s foreign minister condemned the remarks as shameful and unacceptable.

The successful rescue offers a moment of relief amidst the shock of the Rome tower collapse. This incident highlights the inherent dangers in restoring ancient structures. The investigation into the medieval tower’s sudden failure is now set to begin.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: Where did the tower collapse happen?

The collapse occurred at the Torre dei Conti, a medieval tower near the Roman Forum and the Colosseum in Rome. The area is a major hub for tourism in the Italian capital.

Q2: What is the history of the Torre dei Conti?

The Torre dei Conti is a historic fortress dating from the early 1200s. It was undergoing a restoration project funded by the European Union at the time of the incident.

Q3: Were any other workers injured?

Yes, three other workers were evacuated from the site. Reports from fire service officials indicated one of them was in critical condition following the initial collapse.

Q4: What caused the medieval tower to collapse?

The official cause is not yet known and is under investigation. The work was reportedly in its final stages, and a prior analysis had certified the site’s safety for renovation.

Q5: Was the rescued worker okay?

The worker was injured but conscious when pulled from the rubble. He was transported to a hospital for treatment, and officials expressed hope for his recovery.