What the Backstage Area of the Colosseum Hides

Exploring iconic landmarks around the world uncovers fascinating secrets that lie hidden behind their grandeur. From the Eiffel Tower to the Colosseum, discover what these historical marvels conceal.

The Eiffel Tower’s Hidden Apartment

Did you know that you could technically live in the Eiffel Tower? Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the tower features a private apartment at its pinnacle, complete with furniture and décor. This quaint space is now home to mannequins representing Eiffel himself and his famous friend, Thomas Edison. Tourists can catch a glimpse of this hidden apartment by purchasing a ticket to the top of the tower.

London’s Smallest Police Station

When visiting Trafalgar Square, don’t miss the smallest police station in London! It’s cleverly concealed beneath a lamppost. Established in 1926, this station allowed officers to stay close to public rallies. Although it now serves as a cleaning station, it once held the title of the tiniest police post in the world, even sporting a direct phone line to Scotland Yard.

Grand Central Station’s Secret Tennis Courts

Among the hustle and bustle of New York's Grand Central Station, an intriguing secret awaits: hidden tennis courts in a space known as the Annex. Once home to various activities, including a recording studio and art gallery, the Vanderbilt Tennis Club can be accessed by members of the public, making it a unique spot for both locals and tourists.

The Roxy Suite at Radio City Music Hall

In New York City’s Radio City Music Hall, a hidden apartment known as The Roxy Suite was designed by producer Samuel Lionel "Roxy" Rothafel. Decorated in an art deco style, the suite features 20-foot high ceilings adorned with gold leaf and plush drapes. Today, only performers and VIP guests can visit this exclusive space, and renting it can come with a hefty price.

The Colosseum’s Ancient Tunnels

The Colosseum, Rome’s iconic symbol, conceals secret tunnels beneath its grounds. Ancient Romans used these passageways to house wild animals like lions, tigers, and elephants for gladiatorial battles and entertainment. Opened to visitors in 2010, these tunnels also showcase the Colosseum’s advanced plumbing system, which included drinking fountains and toilets. However, some critics worry that the influx of visitors could jeopardize the building's structural integrity.

The Empire State Building’s Secret 103rd Floor

Though the Empire State Building is said to have 102 floors, it actually boasts a secret 103rd floor. Accessed through a hidden staircase on the 102nd floor, this clandestine space is primarily reserved for building engineers and occasional celebrities. The 103rd floor leads to the iconic dome, which harbors a mysterious hidden chamber.

Mount Rushmore’s Hidden Room

Behind Abraham Lincoln's head at Mount Rushmore lies a secret room, once designed to house important American artifacts, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. While these documents have since been relocated, the room remains closed to the public, shrouding its contents in mystery.

The Great Pyramid of Giza's Discovery

The Great Pyramid of Giza, completed between 2550 and 2490 BCE, is the last of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Recently, archaeologists discovered a secret space within, dubbed the "big void," measuring nearly 100 feet in length. Its purpose is still debated, with some suggesting it may have served as an internal ramp used during the pyramid's construction.

Cinderella Castle’s Enigmatic Suite

At Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in Orlando, Florida, Cinderella Castle features a hidden room known as the Cinderella Suite. Originally intended for Walt Disney and his family, its construction concluded in 2006, long after Walt’s passing in 1966. This exclusive suite is seldom opened and is accessible only to specially invited guests.

Milan’s Royal Pavilion

Italy’s Milano Centrale, the second-largest railway station in the country, contains closed doors that lead to the Royal Pavilion. Designed as a waiting area for the royal family, this opulent space features two grand halls with luxurious furnishings and marble decor, although most passengers are oblivious to its presence.

The Statue of Liberty’s Concealed Torch Room

Even the Statue of Liberty holds secrets! The torch of the statue contains a hidden room that has been closed to the public since 1916. A camera was installed in 2011 to provide live-stream views of the breathtaking panorama from the torch, allowing people to appreciate this historic landmark from afar.

Da Vinci’s Secret Discovery

In 1960, a statue of Leonardo da Vinci was unveiled at Rome’s Da Vinci Airport. During recent renovations, workers discovered a small hole in the statue, which when opened revealed two parchments written in classical Latin. One document described the location of the airport, while the other listed attendees at the statue's inauguration.

The U.S. Supreme Court’s Hidden Sports Facility

In Washington D.C., the U.S. Supreme Court features a secret sports facility where clerks, off-duty police officers, and employees can play basketball. Located on the top floor of the building, this hidden venue is indeed a testament to the motto of the highest court in the land: to work hard and play harder.

Exclusive Access to Disneyland’s Club 33

Disneyland’s Club 33, nestled in the New Orleans Square section, is an exclusive hideaway for a mere 500 members. Established in 1967 to entertain celebrities and dignitaries, Membership requires a $25 , 000 i n i t i al f e e p l u s a n a n n u al f e e r a n g i n g f r o m 12,000 to $25,000. The entrance, initially discreetly marked with the number 33, has been relocated but remains a part of Disneyland's lore.

Hidden Rooms in New York Public Libraries

New York City’s public libraries harbor hidden apartments for employees and their families. While many of these rooms remain empty, some have undergone renovations and are now accessible to the public. For example, the Washington Heights Branch has transformed an old space into a dedicated teen area and tech center.

These hidden gems and secret spaces reveal the rich history and mystery that accompany these renowned landmarks. From exclusive clubs to undiscovered tunnels, these stories add depth to our understanding of the world’s most iconic sites. If you want to learn more about these intriguing places, feel free to leave a comment or reach out via email. Always stay curious and explore the wonders that history has to offer!