Historic Chinese Tower Collapses During Tourist Visit

Zhejiang's Historic Drum Tower Partially Collapses, Raising Concerns Over Recent Restoration On May 22, 2025, a portion of the roof of the Drum Tower in Zhejiang, China, unexpectedly collapsed. The incident occurred while numerous tourists were present in the area. Remarkably, no injuries were reported. Footage circulating online captures the moment of the collapse, showing a large cloud of dust billowing from the structure. The Drum Tower, built in 1375 during the Ming Dynasty, underwent a recent restoration completed just this past March. This has prompted questions about the quality of the renovation work and the safety measures implemented. "It was terrifying," said one eyewitness, who recorded the collapse on their phone. "Dust filled the air, and everyone scattered." The incident has sparked a debate about the balance between preserving historical structures and ensuring their safety for visitors. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the collapse. The findings will be crucial in determining the next steps for the Drum Tower's preservation and restoration. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges involved in preserving ancient buildings and the importance of rigorous safety standards during renovation projects.