Recent assertions by researchers and investigators are demanding the Vatican Apostolic Archives disclose potential records pertaining to unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs), commonly known as UFOs. This push intensified following the passing of Pope Francis in early 2025, sparking renewed interest in what some claim are decades-old, hidden files concerning extraterrestrial encounters and paranormal events.
Persistent Claims of Concealed Knowledge
Researchers, including UFO investigator Mark Christopher Lee, contend that the Vatican may possess "hundreds" of classified documents relating to potential UFO sightings. Lee alleges that the Holy See might have even collaborated with the U.S. government in investigating and potentially concealing such information. He argues that if the Church is committed to "spiritual truth and human enlightenment," it should cease withholding data that could "fundamentally reshape our understanding of our place in the cosmos."
"If the Church is truly committed to spiritual truth and human enlightenment, then it must no longer suppress information that could fundamentally reshape our understanding of our place in the cosmos." - Mark Christopher Lee
Nature of Alleged Holdings
The claims center on the vast holdings of the Vatican Apostolic Archives, described as containing approximately 50 miles (or 80 kilometers) of shelving filled with historical documents, from papal notes to presidential correspondence. Scholars like Professor Pasulka, a religious studies professor at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, suggest that these archives are replete with accounts of paranormal occurrences. These include reports of "orbs entering cells," "flying houses," and other "aerial phenomena," which she posits could be reinterpreted as early UFO sightings rather than traditional miracles.
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Vatican's Official Stance and Historical Context
Staff at the Vatican Archives reportedly acknowledge the presence of accounts detailing miracles within their collections but unequivocally deny that any holdings pertain to aliens.
Astronomical Pursuits
The Vatican Observatory maintains a focus on established astrophysics, including galaxy formation, planetary systems, and cosmology. While its astronomical engagement dates back centuries, establishing it as a long-standing observer of the night sky, its current work does not involve UFO investigations. However, Vatican scientists emphasize an "openness to possibility" that they distinguish from outright confirmation of extraterrestrial life.
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"Claims about secret alien files, recovered spacecraft, or Vatican-brokered disclosure agreements remain unsubstantiated."
Decades of Speculation
Interest in uncovering paranormal secrets within the Vatican archives has spanned several decades. Over twenty years ago, Father Francis Tiso, an expert on interreligious dialogue, reportedly discussed plans for paranormal research within the archives with the founder of the Esalen Institute. Despite ongoing speculation, any assertions of secret alien files, recovered spacecraft, or Vatican-brokered disclosure agreements remain unsubstantiated by official Vatican pronouncements.
Despite these official denials, the persistent nature of these claims, amplified by events such as the death of Pope Francis and ongoing discussions about UAPs in governmental forums, continues to fuel public and researcher curiosity regarding the contents of the Vatican's most guarded repositories.
