Rome’s ancient skyline was dramatically altered on Monday when the Torre dei Conti, a historic medieval tower situated close to the world-renowned Colosseum, partially collapsed. The incident, which occurred during critical restoration efforts, left one worker severely injured and two others with minor wounds, according to reports from the Italian news agency, ANSA.
Emergency services faced a challenging scene, with at least one individual initially trapped under the fallen debris, confirmed Luca Cari, a spokesperson for Rome’s fire department.
The affected workers were part of a team dedicated to restoring the tower, a landmark that has remained closed to the public since 2006.
Dramatic videos circulating on social media captured the alarming moments, showing vast clouds of dust billowing from the site, accompanied by the unsettling sound of collapsing stone.
The initial collapse occurred while workers were on scaffolding. Firefighters swiftly deployed a ladder truck to rescue them. While two sustained only minor injuries, a 64-year-old man was critically hurt after being struck by falling debris during this chaotic event.
Adding to the urgency, a second partial collapse took place as firefighters were actively engaged in the rescue operation, as reported by The Associated Press.
Standing nearly 100 feet tall and nestled near the Roman Forum, the Torre dei Conti boasts a rich history, dating back to its construction in the 13th century. It once served as a residence for Pope Innocent III and his family. Over centuries, the tower has endured numerous structural and cosmetic damages, primarily from earthquakes. A comprehensive four-year restoration project was underway, with plans to reopen the historic site to visitors in 2026.
Elisabetta Povoledo contributed to this report from Rome.