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A section of the medieval Torre dei Conti in central Rome collapsed on Monday morning during restoration work, leaving one worker trapped beneath debris and another seriously injured, according to Italian rescue officials.
Firefighters rushed to the scene with multiple emergency teams and ladder trucks after the first collapse struck the 13th-century tower. The site lies along Via dei Fori Imperiali, a major avenue near the Colosseum and a popular tourist area that was quickly sealed off by police.
Shortly after the initial collapse, a second section gave way while rescuers were still working. Television footage showed the moment debris fell again, forcing teams to retreat briefly before resuming their efforts with mobile ladders. Authorities confirmed that one worker remained trapped but responsive under the rubble.
Regional Governor Francesco Rocca said the hospitalized worker was not in life-threatening condition, while two others sustained minor injuries. Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri and Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli visited the site, emphasizing the ongoing investigation into the cause of the collapse.
Prosecutors in Rome have opened an inquiry to determine whether structural or procedural failures contributed to the incident.
The Torre dei Conti, constructed in 1238 under Pope Innocent III, once stood as one of the most imposing medieval fortifications in the Eternal City. Measuring about 29 meters in height, it has long served as a visual reminder of Rome’s layered history.
The tower was undergoing long-delayed restoration after years of neglect when the accident occurred.
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