Plizio Visual Lab
Storage Annex
The Vatican Storage Annex functions as a critical logistical hub for the management and preservation of the vast collections held by the Vatican Museums and the city-state administration. These facilities are used to store restoration supplies, components for temporary exhibitions, and artworks that are not currently on public display. Equipped with modern climate control and fire suppression systems, the annex ensures that sensitive materials such as wood, canvas, and parchment are protected from environmental degradation. The management of these storage spaces follows strict archival and museum standards, with every item precisely cataloged for inventory purposes. Beyond art, the annex also stores materials needed for the ongoing maintenance of the Vatican's historic buildings and infrastructure. Although closed to the general public, it serves as the essential backbone for the Holy See's extensive cultural and administrative operations.
- Location: Vatican
- Top sights: Saint Peter's Basilica · Pauline Chapel · Sistine Chapel
- Population: ~829 (2026)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 7 | 8 | 10 | 14 | 18 | 23 | 26 | 26 | 21 | 17 | 12 | 8 |
| Rain mm | 73 | 77 | 69 | 56 | 57 | 34 | 26 | 26 | 70 | 82 | 114 | 92 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- Storage areas are managed by the Directorate of the Vatican Museums.
- Climate control systems maintain a steady relative humidity of around 50%.
- The annex houses thousands of items not currently included in permanent galleries.
- Security personnel monitor the entrances continuously via CCTV systems.
- It stores authentic materials used for the restoration of historic papal palaces.
- Recent expansions have introduced high-density mobile shelving for efficiency.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Storage Annex (10)
Cupola di San Pietro
Dome of St. Peter's Basilica, designed by Michelangelo, offering panoramic views of Rome.
Raphael Rooms🏛 museum
Suite of reception rooms in the Vatican Palace, painted by Raphael and his workshop between 1509 and 1524.
Arch of the Bells
Archway in Vatican City, providing passage between St. Peter's Square and the basilica.
Sacristy🏛 museum
Sacristy in Vatican City, used for storing liturgical vestments and vessels.
Chiesa di Santa Maria della Pietà⛪ church
Church in Vatican City, housing Michelangelo's Pietà sculpture.
Saint Stephen of the Ethiopians⛪ church
Church in Vatican City, one of Rome's oldest, originally built for Ethiopian monks.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Vatican Storage Annex?
Can tourists visit this building?
Where exactly is the annex located?
Is art stored there?
Is the building historically significant?
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