Medieval Tower Collapse in Rome Injures Workers During Renovation

A medieval tower in Rome, known as the Torre dei Conti, partially collapsed on March 12, 2024, during ongoing renovation work, severely injuring one worker and trapping another. The structure, located near the renowned Roman Forum, became the focus of a dramatic rescue operation as firefighters attempted to save the trapped individual amidst falling debris.

Witnesses reported that the initial collapse occurred shortly before noon, attracting a crowd of onlookers, including many tourists. Firefighters used a mobile ladder to reach the upper levels of the tower in an effort to rescue the worker. Unfortunately, as they worked, another part of the structure gave way, creating a cloud of dust and forcing the rescue team to retreat temporarily.

Firefighter spokesman Luca Cari confirmed that one worker remained trapped hours after the incident. He noted that the rescued worker was in critical condition and that three other workers escaped unharmed. Witnesses described the chaos that ensued during the rescue efforts.

Queen Paglinawan, who was working at a nearby gelato shop, recalled hearing two loud noises in quick succession. “I was working and then I heard something falling, and then I saw the tower collapse in a diagonal way,” the 27-year-old said, as further collapses echoed in the background.

Another bystander, Viktoria Braeu, an 18-year-old German student, was in the vicinity when the second collapse occurred. “We were just at the Colosseum and then we were walking to get some food. And then we thought, ‘It’s probably not long until it’s going to go down,’ and then it just started erupting,” she recounted.

As firefighters attempted to approach the first-floor window using mobile ladders, they were quickly pulled back when dust erupted from the site. Authorities employed a drone to assess the situation of the trapped worker, showcasing the urgency of the rescue efforts.

The Torre dei Conti, constructed in the 13th century by Pope Innocent III as a residence for his family, has a history of structural issues. It was previously damaged in a significant earthquake in 1349 and has experienced additional collapses in the 17th century.

Both Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri and Italian Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli were present at the scene. However, they chose not to address reporters regarding the incident.

As the situation unfolded, emergency services remained on site, working diligently to ensure the safety of all involved and to manage the aftermath of the substantial structural failure. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of preserving historical structures while ensuring the safety of workers and the public.