Biblioteca Apostolica Vaticana (Vatican Apostolic Library), Rome

The Vatican Apostolic Library, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious libraries, holds an extensive collection of historical texts and manuscripts. It is located within the Vatican Palace and can be accessed through the Belvedere Courtyard. While officially established in 1475, its origins trace back much earlier, making it a vital repository of historical and cultural heritage.

The library’s foundation began in 1448 when Pope Nicholas V consolidated approximately 350 Greek, Latin, and Hebrew manuscripts from his predecessors with his own private collection and new acquisitions. These included texts from the Library of Constantinople. By 1455, Nicholas V had expanded the library to 1,200 books, solidifying its role as a major intellectual center. Under Pope Sixtus IV, it grew into the Palatine Library, the largest in Western Europe at the time. Later, Pope Sixtus V (who held office from 1585 to 1590) commissioned Domenico Fontana to construct a new building, which remains in use today. In its early years, books were displayed on benches and chained to prevent theft.

The library’s collection continued to grow through various acquisitions and gifts. In 1623, the Palatine Library of Heidelberg was transferred here. The Dukes of Urbino’s manuscripts were added in 1657, followed by Queen Christina of Sweden’s collection in 1689. Under Pope Clement XI, an Oriental section was established. The Vatican Film Library, created in 1959, further expanded its holdings.

Today, the Vatican Library houses 75,000 ancient manuscripts, 1.1 million printed books, and 8,500 so-called “incunabula” – the books printed before the invention of the printing press. Notable treasures include one of the oldest nearly complete Bibles – in Greek (dated the 4th century); the Codex Borgia, an important Mesoamerican manuscript; and a tiny 45mm Quran.

The vast facility includes 42 km (or 26 miles) of shelving, along with specialized areas for manuscript storage, restoration, and photographic archiving. The Vatican Secret Archives, now called the Vatican Apostolic Archive, was separated from the library in the 17th century and holds 150,000 additional documents of historical importance.

Although primarily known for its theological texts, the library also preserves significant secular works, particularly Greek and Latin classics that were essential to the Renaissance. Some 6,000 new books are acquired annually. Additionally, the collection comprises 330,000 coins and medals.

As a research library for scholars in history, law, philosophy, science, and theology, the Vatican Apostolic Library remains an essential institution for global intellectual and cultural heritage. Access is restricted to qualified researchers, ensuring that its invaluable resources continue to be studied and preserved.