Post by : Raina
Al-Fahim
Rome — Part of the 13th-century Torre dei Conti, close to the Roman Forum, partially collapsed on Monday amid restoration work, resulting in one fatality and several injuries.
Officials identified the deceased as 42-year-old Romanian national Octay Stroici. He was pulled from the debris after several hours and, despite remaining conscious during the rescue, died early Tuesday at Umberto I Hospital.
Authorities said Stroici was a member of a renovation crew working on an EU-funded restoration project that began in June 2025, which included asbestos removal and measures to reinforce the structure.
Three other workers were rescued from the site, with one reported in critical condition. Firefighters said a second partial collapse about 90 minutes later was contained, preventing further casualties.
“It was not safe. I just want to go home,” said one surviving worker, his uniform coated in white dust.
The accident has raised questions about safety practices on restoration sites at the city’s ancient monuments. The Directorate of Cultural Heritage said its initial checks had verified the “necessary safety conditions” before work started.
The Italian government also condemned remarks by Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, who linked the incident to Italy’s support for Ukraine. Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani called the comments “shameful, unacceptable.”
Authorities have cordoned off the area near the Colosseum while experts assess the extent of structural damage to the tower and surrounding sites.
An investigation is ongoing to determine the precise cause of the collapse.
English
