**Historical Uses of Secret Passages:** – Ancient Egyptians used secret passages to protect burial chambers. – Early Christians in the 2nd century AD used hidden rooms for worship gatherings. – Secret passages were used strategically in Bran Castle and during the French Revolution. – The Passetto was utilized by Popes for escapes. – Catholic priests in Britain used priest holes to escape persecution. – Various tunnels and passages were used for smuggling and escape during different historical periods. **Modern Uses of Secret Passages:** – North Korea has dug tunnels towards South Korea since 1954, with skills exported to groups like Hezbollah and Hamas. – Palestinian groups like Hamas have constructed tunnels for attacks and smuggling. – A smuggling tunnel between the US and Mexico was discovered in 2006. – Tunnels have facilitated illegal immigration, smuggling, and criminal activities. – Contractors specialize in constructing hidden panic rooms for private residences for protection during break-ins or home invasions. **Mythological and Fictional Depictions of Secret Passages:** – Secret passages are common in mythological stories, fiction, and TV shows for entering supernatural realms or hidden areas. – Greek mythology features stories of secret passages used for theft and deception. – Detective and mystery stories often involve crimes carried out through secret passages. – Authors like Enid Blyton incorporate secret passages in their works for adding mystery and intrigue to the plot. – Role-playing games, board games like Cluedo, and video games feature secret passages for exploration and rewards. **Technology and Construction of Secret Passages:** – PBS.org offers information on building the Colditz Glider and the use of underground activities. – North Korean provocative actions related to tunneling are detailed in a CRS report. – Various articles discuss the construction and discovery of secret passages in historical contexts. – Contractors use materials like steel and Kevlar to reinforce panic rooms for protection. – Architectural designs and mechanisms vary in complexity for creating secret passages. **References and Entertainment Involving Secret Passages:** – Various media outlets and publications cover stories related to secret passages. – Entertainment mediums like board games, video games, and literature incorporate secret passages for intrigue and gameplay. – Visual clues and hidden areas in games provide rewards like bonus stages and shortcuts. – Historical and archaeological discoveries related to secret passages are highlighted in various sources. – The use of secret passages in various forms of entertainment adds to the mystery and excitement for audiences.