One of your first big jobs in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is snapping pics of mysterious inscriptions hidden all over the Vatican. These inscriptions are tied to the secretive Nephilim Order. You only need four of them to progress, but tracking down all ten? Totally worth it for an extra Relic and an Achievement or Trophy.
You’ll naturally come across most of these as you progress through the story missions, especially while following the Path of Junia Achievement. Don’t stress about grabbing them all at once—just keep your camera handy and your eyes open.
These Strange Inscriptions also play a key role in the Secrets of Giants mission, making their discovery essential for completing the storyline.
Where to Find the Strange Inscriptions Locations
Belvedere Courtyard
There are two inscriptions here that are easy to snag once you’ve got the camera. A third shows up later after the Vatican Museum unlocks.
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Belvedere Fountain
Head to the fountain in the middle of the courtyard. The inscription is on the side facing the Apostolic Library. You might have to climb into the fountain for a better shot.
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Borgia Tower Exterior
Look for the scaffolding near the big propaganda poster on the south side of the courtyard. Climb up to the first balcony, turn right, and there’s your inscription on the Borgia Tower wall.
Vatican Museum
After Indiana Jones meeting Gina in the Sistine Chapel, she’ll kick off the Nun in Trouble mission. This unlocks the Vatican Museum. Enter through the Blackshirt camp just outside the library.
- Garden Stairs
When you enter the first garden area, immediately turn left and go up the stairs in the corner. It’s a dead end, but the inscription is right there waiting for you.
Via Belvedere
You’ll return to this area in the eastern part of Vatican City multiple times during various quests, so don’t worry if you miss something on your first pass.
- Belvedere Gardens
After going through the tunnel from the main courtyard, look for a gate on your left leading to the gardens. The inscription is in the back-right corner. If you’re on the Nun in Trouble mission, you’ll exit the museum here—perfect time to grab a pic.
Post Office Basement
During the Savage Discovery mission, you’ll get a Cellar Key after taking down Giuseppe at the dig site. This key opens the basement door outside the post office, near the military checkpoint.
- Behind the Scaffolding
Once inside, head left and go around the scaffolding blocking the room. The inscription is on the far wall.
Vatican Sewers
Talk to Sister Catherine in the Sistine Chapel to learn about Father Crescenzo’s journal. Then head to the library and chat with Antonio to get the Sewer Key.
- Stairwell in the Sewers
Enter the sewers through the Tower of Nicholas V. After the climbing section, you’ll find the inscription along the stairs leading back to the Apostolic Palace.
Apostolic Palace
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Rooftop
There are a couple of ways to reach the roof. You can:- Climb out the window behind the St. Peter’s Square puzzle box replica, then scale the scaffolding to your right.
- Head to the construction site near the main entrance of the Sistine Chapel.
Either way, be careful—one wrong step, and it’s a long way down.
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Washing Tent
After the cutscene where you meet Gina and the German airship shows up, zipline from the balcony, crawl through the hole in the fence, and climb down into the washing tent area. There’s an inscription near where you climbed down. While you’re here, grab the Blackshirt Uniform and Key—they’ll help you access some restricted areas.
Excavation Site
This place is swarming with guards, so either throw on your Blackshirt disguise or get ready for a fight.
- Opposite the Foreman’s Office
Look for a corner directly across from the foreman’s office. That’s where the inscription is hiding.
Fountain of Confession
Your final stop is the Fountain of Confession. Before solving the puzzle to enter the hidden monastery, climb the stairs to the left. The tenth and last inscription is waiting for you up there.
Final Thoughts
Hunting down all ten Strange Inscriptions isn’t just a fun side mission—it’s a deep dive into the Vatican’s secrets. Take your time, explore thoroughly, and don’t forget to enjoy the journey while piecing together the Nephilim Order’s mystery.