A worker has died after being trapped in a medieval tower in Rome following its partial collapse during a renovation. Firefighters spent 11 hours attempting to rescue the man from the Torre dei Conti, a 13th-century tower with historical significance, before he succumbed to his injuries. The incident occurred as the tower was being renovated for a $8 million museum project.
The Torre dei Conti, which once served as the residence of Pope Innocent III and his family, has been closed since 2007. Workers were involved in restoring the structure and planning a new museum, but the collapse during the renovation efforts resulted in the tragic loss of the worker’s life. Firefighters faced significant challenges during the rescue operation, including the need to retreat due to a cloud of debris and fears of further structural collapse. They attempted various methods, including using a drone, a crane with rescuers, and two ladders, before successfully retrieving the man through a telescopic aerial ladder.
The tragedy has prompted officials to express deep sorrow and condolences to the victim’s family and colleagues. Rome’s mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, stated that workers were proceeding with caution to prevent further collapses. In a statement, Italy’s Premier Giorgia Meloni expressed her condolences, emphasizing the profound loss and the city’s support for those affected. Meanwhile, three other workers were rescued without injury, and one additional person was hospitalized in critical condition. No firefighters were harmed during the rescue operations.
The incident has also brought attention to the challenges of renovating historical sites, raising questions about safety protocols and the risks involved in such projects. The tower, which survived an earthquake in 1349, had collapsed in the 17th century, but its recent restoration efforts led to this tragic accident. With over 50 million overnight visitors in Rome in 2024, the city remains a significant cultural and tourist hub, where historical preservation and modern development continue to intersect.