Real Places Around the World People Aren't Allowed to Visit Anymore

Vatican Secret Archives, Vatican

The Vatican’s secret archives are among the most heavily guarded places on Earth. If you’ve ever been curious about the alleged hidden secrets of the Catholic Church, prepare to stay curious—access is virtually impossible for outsiders. These archives are shrouded in mystery, and for good reason

They’re said to house an immense collection of historical scrolls, many written in Latin, dating as far back as the 9th century or even earlier. With approximately 55 miles of shelves packed with ancient books and documents, it’s no wonder the archives are so closely protected. But here’s the thing: even if you could get in, would you know what to do with centuries-old Latin texts? It’s believed that only a handful of scholars have ever delved deep into this treasure trove. So, who’s keeping track of it all? The answer remains as elusive as the archives themselves.