Partial Collapse of Rome's Torre dei Conti Injures Workers

A section of the medieval Torre dei Conti in central Rome collapsed on Monday during renovation work, resulting in injuries to workers and initiating complex rescue operations. The collapse occurred around 11:30 a.m. local time near the Colosseum and the Roman Forum.

Firefighters rescued three workers unharmed, while a 64-year-old worker was hospitalized in critical condition. Another worker remained trapped under the rubble, with rescue efforts complicated by the tower's continued structural instability. Firefighter spokesperson Luca Cari stated that the situation was complex due to the risk of further collapses.

During the rescue attempts, additional portions of the structure collapsed, sending clouds of debris into the air and forcing emergency responders to retreat temporarily. Despite these challenges, signs of life were detected from the trapped worker, and rescuers provided some protection during earlier attempts.

The Torre dei Conti, built in the 13th century by Pope Innocent III, has a history of damage from earthquakes in the 14th and 17th centuries. The tower had been undergoing a four-year restoration project set to conclude in 2026.

Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri and Italian Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli were present at the scene, though they did not speak to reporters. The area around the tower had been closed to pedestrians due to the restoration work, preventing injuries to bystanders.