Partial Collapse of Medieval Tower in Rome

A construction worker became trapped beneath debris on Monday after a portion of Rome’s medieval Tower of the Conti collapsed during renovation efforts, sending rubble near the Roman Forum.

The tower, dating back to the 13th century, gave way around noon local time, resulting in severe injuries to one worker and trapping another. This all transpired as tourists looked on while firefighters attempted to carry out a rescue, according to reports. Three other workers managed to escape without injuries.

Rescue teams utilized mobile ladders to access the upper levels with stretchers but had to retreat when another segment of the tower collapsed. This second collapse generated a cloud of dust, leading to the evacuation of firefighters.

Queen Pagli Nawan, a 27-year-old gelato shop employee nearby, described the moment: “While I was working, I heard a falling sound and saw the tower collapse diagonally.”

Efforts to rescue the trapped workers continued for several hours after the first collapse. A second attempt using ladders was called off, necessitating the use of a drone to evaluate the situation.

Governor Lamberto Giannini, Rome’s top law enforcement official, mentioned that the trapped worker showed “signs of life,” and firefighters were attempting to safeguard him. He characterized the situation as “very complex” and noted that additional equipment was en route.

“It’s going to be a very long operation. We have to try to save this person while mitigating the huge risks to the people trying to save him,” he stated to reporters.

German tourist Victoria Blau, 18, recounted witnessing the second collapse while walking from the Colosseum. “We were just at the Colosseum, walking to get some food… and we were thinking, ‘Maybe it’s going to be over soon,’ and then the eruption just started,” she said.

The Tower of Conti was commissioned by Pope Innocent III to reinforce his authority over Rome and the Papal States, with construction overseen by his brother Richard. Historical records indicate that the structure was damaged in a quake in 1349 and experienced collapses in the 1600s.

Rome’s Mayor Roberto Gualtieri and Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli arrived at the site but did not speak to the press. Fortunately, no firefighters were injured during the incident.