🔗 Share this article Rome Medieval Tower Collapses During Restoration Work, Stranding and Harming Workers An historic fortress in central the Italian capital partially collapsed on two occasions while undergoing restoration, stranding a laborer above ground and injuring a second. Initial Collapse Details Descending rubble from the initial collapse of the Torre dei Conti, that happened around 11:30 a.m., hit a 64-year-old construction worker. He was transported to a local medical facility in serious state, although authorities later stated his wounds were not fatal. Rescue Operations and Second Failure As many of visitors and passersby watching, firefighters rescued several other laborers from elevated platforms on the tall structure. In the midst of the operation, at about 1 p.m., a part inside of the tower gave way, stranding one worker trapped above ground. Our efforts are focused to rescue him safely but the situation is complex because of the risk of additional structural failures,” said a fire service spokesperson. Onlooker Reports Bystanders described hearing a loud bang and seeing clouds of debris. An individual stated, “I saw a laborer drop.” Another observer, working in a nearby gelato shop, mentioned she listened to two loud noises in quick succession. “I was working and then I listened to some like crashing, and then I saw the structure fall in a diagonal manner,” she said. Emergency Actions Firefighters used a drone to fly through a window and examine the location. A worker inside at the moment of the initial collapse said he escaped from a balcony. Conditions were dangerous. I only wish to go home,” stated the man, white dust covering his uniform. Location Cordoned Off The vicinity near the Roman Forum and Piazza Venezia, typically continuously crowded with visitors and vehicles, has been cordoned off. Local and government authorities were at the location. Background Context The Torre dei Conti was constructed in the 1200s as a defensive home for a prominent family. It was damaged in an seismic event in 1349 and experienced collapses in the 1600s. The restoration works are being funded by money from the EU’s post-COVID recovery fund.