Have you ever wondered why the Vatican is guarded by Swiss Guards? It’s an interesting combination, after all – the supremely Catholic Vatican City protected by guards from a predominantly Protestant country. The truth is that there’s a very fascinating story associated with the Swiss Guards – a story that starts with a famous Renaissance condottiero and continues to this day.
The Swiss Guards, or as they’re also known, “the Pontifical Swiss Guard”, have been protecting the Pope and the Vatican since 1506. The explanation of this tradition lies in the past, in the events that occurred after the election of the first Swiss pope – Pope Julius II. He was elected on 1 November 1503, and immediately after his election he invited into his service a group of soldiers from Switzerland, all amazing with their skills and loyalty. These soldiers were selected from the Catholic Swiss cantons and were the most respected and powerful army of that time.
Pope Julius II knew that since Switzerland was a rich, independent country it would make a great substitute for Italy, which back then was divided and controlled by surrounding countries. He saw that in Switzerland he could find great warriors willing to protect the Church from any enemies. This is why he asked the Swiss canton to send a group of soldiers to guard the Vatican.
The Swiss Guards agreed to protect the Vatican at a time when any kind of military service was considered an honor. Soon enough, the Swiss Guards, not only protected the Vatican from enemy attacks, but they also protected the Pope during his travels and journeys. They also wound up becoming a symbol of the Vatican and its values.
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The Iconic Uniform of the Swiss Guard
In order to better recognize his Swiss guards among the crowd and represent the Church with dignity, in May 14, 1515, Pope Leo X asked master tailor Fra’ Domenico da Piacenza to design the spiritual uniform for the Swiss Guards. This iconic uniform of the Swiss Guard includes a bright yellow, double-breasted coat with a blue stripe, a matching hat with yellow-and-blue feathers on top, metal weapons, and a black beret.
The Swiss guards wear their uniform as a way to show respect for their role of protecting the Church, and each year on May 6th, they renew their vows in a solemn ceremony held in the Vatican Courtyard. This ceremonial act includes the symbolic exchange of weapons and the oath of allegiance between the new guards and the Pope. The ceremony is a manifestation of the Swiss guards’ persistent loyalty for the Church and the pope.
Today’s Swiss Guards in Vatican City
The Swiss Guards still proudly protect the Vatican. Today, a 110 guardsman accompany the Pope during his journey, in addition to their daily tasks at the Vatican. They are the most reliable and trustworthy professional guardsman in Vatican City. The Swiss guards are hand-picked among all the Swiss Catholics between 19-30 years old and are required to have a tall stature, good physical shape and have some experience in the Swiss military. They are given a range of trainings before arriving to the Vatican, such as religious instructions, the Papal and Vatican protocols and special weapons and static guard instruction.
The Appropriate Balance between Fun and Duty!
At the end of the day (Other than if being on alert against any foreign threats), the Swiss Guards remain modest and personable but keep a safe balance between a professional attitude and duty-free fun. Indeed, while being responsible for serious matters such as defending the Vatican from bad intentions or malicious acts, a lot of its members have developed a friendly and good humored international relationship with visitors, and consequently, have created a positive image for Switzerland and the Swiss Guards.
In conclusion, the Swiss have been guardians of Vatican City for centuries now, and their presence is a crucial part of it. The history of the Swiss Guards is fascinating and inspiring, and we can only appreciate their commitment, loyalty and dedication to their role. They have shown great responsibility and bravery. After all, theirs is a unique role that symbolizes faith, respect, and devotion.
So, whether you’re a religious person or not, it’s heartwarming to know that the Swiss Guards faithfully guard the Vatican City with gallantry and a sense of humor. You can’t help but feel secure when they’re around.
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