Heroic Rescue Efforts Underway as Man Trapped in Collapsed Medieval Tower in Rome

Rescue efforts are currently underway in central Rome, where a man is trapped following the partial collapse of a medieval tower, the Torre dei Conti. The incident occurred during renovation work on the structure, which is situated near the Roman Forum. The initial collapse took place at approximately 11:30 AM local time on Monday.

Details of the Incident

During the first collapse, falling debris injured a 64-year-old worker, who was subsequently hospitalized in critical condition. Fortunately, local authorities have reported that his injuries are not life-threatening. The injured party was transferred to San Giovanni hospital for treatment.

Ongoing Rescue Operations

As spectators, including numerous tourists, looked on, firefighters were able to rescue three workers from scaffolding on the tower, which stands at 29 meters. However, around 1 PM, an internal section of the tower gave way, leaving another worker trapped on an upper floor.

Lamberto Giannini, the prefect of Rome, confirmed that the trapped individual is alive. He emphasized the urgency of the rescue efforts: “Every effort is under way to try to save him, which is a priority,” Giannini stated. “However, it will be a long and complex operation due to the high risk of further collapse.”

Witness Accounts

• Ottaviano, a 67-year-old worker: Managed to escape the tower just before the initial collapse.
• Elena, a local pub worker: Described the first collapse as feeling like an earthquake while she was preparing her establishment for opening.
• Queen Paglinawan, gelato shop employee: Heard two loud noises and witnessed the tower collapsing diagonally.
• Viktoria Braeu, an 18-year-old student: Was passing by the scene when the second collapse occurred during the rescue efforts.

Community Reaction

The area surrounding the Forum and Piazza Venezia has been cordoned off, impacting both tourists and local residents. Many witnesses expressed their shock and concern, highlighting the historical significance of the Torre dei Conti, which dates back to the 13th century and has endured previous collapses.

Historical Significance of Torre dei Conti

The Torre dei Conti was constructed by Richard Conti, who was the brother of Pope Innocent III. The tower suffered damage from an earthquake in 1349 and has experienced additional collapses in the 17th century. The current restoration efforts are being funded by the European Union’s post-pandemic recovery fund, aimed at enhancing the building’s structural integrity.

As rescue teams continue their operation, the hope remains that the trapped individual can be safely and swiftly extracted from the debris of the medieval tower.