VATICAN CITY (AP) — Debunking long-held notions of secrecy, the Vatican has been actively clarifying that its secret archives, recently renamed to omit “Secret,” are in fact accessible to scholars. In a revealing gesture, Archbishop Sergio Pagano, the outgoing prefect of the Vatican Apostolic Archive, is ready to share untold stories and insights from his extensive tenure overseeing the papacy’s historical documents.
A forthcoming publication, “Secretum,” captures Pagano’s encounters with the archives through conversations with journalist Massimo Franco. Spanning from Napoleon’s looting of the archives to the curious funding of the 1922 conclave by American Catholics, Pagano unpacks moments of the Holy See’s intersecting journey with global history.
At 75 years old, Pagano reflects on his work experience and the treasure trove in the Vatican’s possession, such as Pope Leo XIII’s initiative in 1881 to make the archive available to researchers. The archive boasts 85 kilometers (53 miles) of shelving and houses documents dating back to the 8th century, including those from Vatican embassies worldwide.
Pagano, observing researchers through a live video feed from his office, notes the intense scholarly interest in the wartime Pope Pius XII. The Vatican’s stance on Pius XII has been to underscore his quiet diplomacy during the Holocaust, which Pagano comments on with both understanding for wartime constraints and frustration for post-war silence.
Pagano’s critique extends to the methodology behind Pius’ sainthood cause, largely based on a pre-existing 11-volume compilation. Pius’ full pontificate records were not utilized, he says, suggesting that a complete review should precede sainthood considerations.
The book also uncovers financial straits faced by the Holy See, sharing the encrypted messages that led to significant monetary assistance from U.S. Catholics in 1922, setting a precedent for continuing fiscal ties between the American church and the Vatican.
One of Pagano’s final sharing moments involves the tale of King Henry VIII’s 1530 annulment plea, safely tucked away from Napoleon’s reach—a testament to the archivist’s duty to protect history.
FAQ Section:
- Why is the Vatican’s oldest archive often associated with secrecy?
- The Vatican Apostolic Archive, formerly known as the Vatican Secret Archive, has sparked public imagination due to its extensive and historical contents, some of which pertain to controversial periods and figured, such as Pope Pius XII during the Holocaust. Its past restricted access contributed to the mystery.
- Who is Archbishop Sergio Pagano?
- Archbishop Sergio Pagano is the prefect of the Vatican Apostolic Archive, a position he’s held for many years and is retiring from. He has worked in the Vatican archives for 45 years.
- What is the book “Secretum” about?
- “Secretum” is a book-length interview in which Archbishop Pagano discloses previously unknown details and insights about the Vatican’s archives and its historical interactions with global events.
- Can anyone access the Vatican Apostolic Archive?
- While not completely open to the public, qualified scholars can request access to the archive to conduct research. It functions similarly to other national or private archives where specific documents can be reviewed in dedicated reading rooms.
Conclusion Section:
The retirement of Archbishop Sergio Pagano marks the end of an era for the Vatican Apostolic Archive and the wealth of history it contains. His forthcoming book “Secretum” provides a rare glimpse into the inner workings and the pivotal moments preserved within these sacred halls. As a participant in both conserving and revealing aspects of the Church’s past, Pagano leaves behind a legacy of transparency and scholarship that reshapes our understanding of the Vatican’s historical role. His insights offer a reminder of the intricate ties between the Church and the wider world, prompting both reflection and anticipation for what other secrets the future might unveil.