Many people have heard of the Swiss Guard but are unsure of why it is called by that name. It is a group of men that have protected the Pope for centuries, and has been a part of the Vatican since the 16th century. The reason behind the name of this group is deeply rooted in Swiss history.
The Swiss Guard was created in 1506, when Pope Julius II and the Swiss Confederacy signed the Eternal Alliance. This agreement allowed up to 200 Swiss soldiers to be employed as a personal guard for the Popes. As part of this agreement, the Pope was to pay the soldiers for their services and these soldiers were to swear an oath of everlasting loyalty to the Pope.
The Swiss Guard came to be known as such because it had always been composed of Swiss soldiers. Even today, the Swiss Guard still requires that its recruits be Catholic Swiss citizens, between the ages of 19 and 30 and at least 174 cm (5 ft 8 ½ in) tall. These soldiers must also be able to speak Italian.
It is an honour to serve in the Swiss Guard and it is also an excellent opportunity for anyone who dreams of working in the Vatican. The Swiss Guard officers are dress in colourful Renaissance uniforms, which they wear to perform their official duties. Most of the uniforms are composed of a doublet, breeches, cape, and a plumed hat. The uniforms are all quite beautiful and reflect the Renaissance period in which the Guard was created.
The Swiss Guard has a rich history and is dedicated to the service of the Holy See. The guards are recognised by their blue, yellow, white, and red uniforms and are a popular sight in Rome. Even though the Swiss Guard has gone through many changes over the centuries, it has always remained dedicated to its original mission of protecting the pope.
In conclusion, the Swiss Guard is a unique group of elite soldiers that have protected the pope since 1506. The reason why they are called The Swiss Guard is due to the Eternal Alliance signed between the Pope and Swiss Confederacy, which stipulated that Swiss soldiers were to serve as personal guards for the Popes. The Swiss Guard still holds to its original mission of protecting the Pope, and will continue to do so for many years to come. Who knows, maybe one day you too can join this special group and guard the pope!
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