Why does vatican use swiss guards

Most guards serve from two to three years before returning home to Switzerland. We'll notify you here with news about. Turn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? Comments 0. Top Stories. Then Pope, Julius II, who had long admired the Swiss soldiers who defended the King of France, requested Swiss mercenaries of his own to use as bodyguards and to defend his palaces. After months of marching, swiss guards arrived in Rome on 21 January, to serve the Pope.

In the contingent was made bigger, from guards to to meet requests. Each recruit is required to complete, first of all, military training in Switzerland. Many guards died protecting a later pope during the looting of Rome of commemorating the anniversary of this 'martyrdom' has since become a tradition.

Until , popes were also the secular rulers of Central Italy and had their own armies. This papal land ownership was lost in the unification of Italy, with the exception of the city of Rome. Specialized blacksmiths are tasked with replacing armor when these older items can not be fixed. In keeping with tradition, the ostrich feathered morion helmets worn by Swiss Guards, still hold the family symbol of Pop Julius II, the oak tree.

While the majority of duties upheld by Swiss Guards are peaceful, they have been involved in some devastating battles through the ages. Their most significant military engagement was in when guards were killed during a battle with the Holy Roman Empire.

Find out more about these fascinating guards and the palace they safeguard as you discover the mysteries of the Holy See on one of these best Vatican tours.

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Training Each recruit is required to complete basic military training in Switzerland.