A section of a medieval tower in the heart of Rome's tourist district has collapsed, trapping one man and leaving another critically injured.
The incident occurred at the Torre dei Conti, located on the edge of the renowned Roman Forum and near the Colosseum, just after 11:30 AM local time. Rome Prefect Lamberto Giannini stated, It's a very complex situation for the firefighters because there is a person trapped inside. Fortunately, the trapped man is conscious and communicating with the rescue workers.
The tower, which has been closed to the public for years, was undergoing conservation work when part of it gave way.
As emergency responders continue their efforts, a second section of the 29-meter (90-foot) high tower began to crumble, sending bricks cascading down and enveloping the area in dust. Firefighters had to momentarily pause their rescue operation due to safety concerns but then resumed their efforts to locate the missing man. Giannini commented, We have to try to save the person, but we also have to try to mitigate the enormous risks faced by those trying to carry out the rescue. Despite the serious situation, a police chief assured that there is no immediate danger of the entire tower collapsing.
Reports indicate that one worker was taken to the hospital in critical condition, while another, 67-year-old Ottaviano, who was inside during the collapse, managed to escape from a balcony uninjured. He expressed concern over the tower's safety, stating, It was not safe. I just want to go home. Rome's mayor and Italy's culture minister have visited the incident site, which has been cordoned off by police for public safety. The medieval tower, constructed by Pope Innocent III for his brother, is a notable landmark within the Roman Forum, a significant tourist attraction in the city.
