VATICAN CITY — A sensational “Breaking News” video claiming that a world-altering secret has been discovered “beneath the Vatican” has garnered millions of views in just 20 minutes, sparking a mix of fascination and skepticism globally. The video features high-definition imagery of church officials and cryptic hints at a hidden archive or artifact that could redefine history.

The viral clip, watermarked with “HTV THINH,” suggests that recent excavations near the central basilica have uncovered evidence that the Church has suppressed for centuries. While the video lacks specific details or verified sources, its professional production value has led many to treat it as a legitimate news leak.

Vatican spokespersons have moved quickly to debunk the claims, calling the video a “sophisticated work of fiction” designed to drive social media engagement through sensationalism. “The archives of the Holy See are subject to rigorous academic study, not hidden in the way these films suggest,” a statement read.

Despite the denials, the video has tapped into a long history of “Vatican mystery” tropes, ranging from lost gospels to extraterrestrial evidence. The timing of the release, coinciding with a major religious holiday, has only added to the fervor of online theorists.

Digital forensic experts have noted that the video utilizes advanced AI-generated imagery to create a sense of realism. The “Live News” banners and rapid-fire editing are classic hallmarks of modern “clickbait” designed to bypass the critical thinking of viewers through visual urgency.

As the “20 minutes ago” timestamp ticks upward, the story continues to mutate across different platforms. It serves as a potent case study in the power of digital misinformation to create global narratives out of thin air, forcing ancient institutions to fight battles in the digital arena.