On Monday, a significant portion of the Fengyang Drum Tower in China's Anhui province collapsed, startling visitors and sending them fleeing for safety. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Witnesses noted the dramatic collapse, likened to a thundering noise, occurred just before a major influx of visitors was expected. The collapse has prompted an investigation into the building's recent renovations, as concerns about the quality of conservation work on historic sites have emerged, highlighting the need for careful analysis before undertaking such projects.
Hundreds of tiles fell from the 650-year-old Fengyang Drum Tower in China's Anhui province Monday, sending crowds running for safety as the roof collapsed.
A janitor said it happened during dinnertime, before a big crowd was expected to gather for an evening dance. "I can't imagine if this happened half an hour sooner or later."
Commentators expressed concern about what they called the shoddy conservation of historic sites, calling for more research before renovations or reconstructions are undertaken.
The 52-foot Drum Tower in the ancient town of Fengyang is the largest watchtower in China, originally built in 1375 during the Ming Dynasty.
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