A Romanian laborer was rescued by emergency responders in Rome after being trapped under debris from a collapsing medieval tower near the Colosseum. The incident, which occurred on Monday, involved the Torre dei Conti, a 29-meter structure that partially crumbled twice within a span of 90 minutes.
The worker was extracted and transported to a hospital in serious condition, as confirmed by Rome police Chief Lamberto Giannini. The collapses were captured on social media and Reuters footage, with clouds of dust and falling masonry creating a hazardous environment. Fortunately, no firefighters sustained injuries during the rescue operation.
The challenging rescue effort was prolonged by recurring collapses that hindered the extraction process, according to Giannini. Another Romanian worker was swiftly rescued with severe head injuries, while two additional workers sustained minor injuries but opted not to seek medical treatment.
The tower, situated on the Via dei Fori Imperiali, was undergoing renovation to convert it into a museum and conference venue. Though the building remained upright, it exhibited substantial internal damage. Erected in the early 13th century by Pope Innocent III, the tower had undergone reductions in height due to earthquake damage in subsequent centuries.
The restoration work, funded by the EU, necessitated the closure of the surrounding area to pedestrians. The structure, which previously housed municipal offices, had been inactive since 2006 and was scheduled for completion of the renovation project next year.