Andrea Moretti died following a workplace incident during overnight works at the historic amphitheatre on 23 September.
Italy’s Ministry of Culture and the Colosseum Archaeological Park confirmed that Moretti was a specialist in rope-based work at height. The Colosseum was subsequently closed to the public as a mark of respect.
Italian news agency ANSA reported that Moretti was working on the installation of a new lighting system when he fell around 10 metres shortly after midnight. Emergency crews attended but were unable to save him.
Moretti was reportedly employed by Quintilio Moretti Srl, a company based in Tottea in the province of Teramo. Italian media said the business is owned by a relative of the 22-year-old.
Investigation under way
The Rome public prosecutor’s office has opened an investigation into the death, with the case currently against persons unknown.
Carabinieri and workplace safety officials are examining the circumstances surrounding the fall, while contract documents and other material connected with the work have been obtained by investigators. An autopsy has also been ordered.
Later reporting from ANSA said initial evidence suggested Moretti was wearing a harness when he was found but may not have been connected to the rope at the time.
Investigators are expected to carry out technical examinations to establish exactly how the fall occurred and whether there were any issues involving the rope, anchorage or other parts of the fall-protection system.
Those details remain part of the investigation and no cause has yet been formally established.
Italian newspaper La Repubblica reported that investigators have also obtained training records and footage from cameras inside the Colosseum as they reconstruct the incident.
Specialist work at height
Moretti was described locally as an experienced rope-access worker despite his young age.
The work was being carried out as part of an upgrade to the Colosseum’s lighting system, with specialist access required to reach areas of the monument where conventional access methods would be difficult.
The Colosseum Archaeological Park said it had closed the site following the death and extended the closure into 24 September as a mark of mourning and support for Moretti’s family and colleagues.
The investigation is continuing.
