The modern Swiss Guard is the product of the reforms pursued by Jules Repond, commander during the years 1910–1921. Repond proposed recruiting only native citizens of Switzerland …

The modern Papal Swiss Guard serves as both a ceremonial unit and a bodyguard. Established in 1506, it is one of the oldest military units in the world. It is also the smallest army in the world. [1]

Jan 1, 2025 · The Swiss Guard, or Pontifical Swiss Guard, is an armed force that has the main goal of protecting the Pope and his residence, the Apostolic Palace. The Swiss Guard is the …

Jan 24, 2023 · Known as the Swiss Guards, they have been a feature of the Papal microstate throughout modern history. But just where did these Swiss Guards come from, to begin with, …

Swiss Guards, corps of Swiss soldiers responsible for the safety of the pope. Often called “the world’s smallest army,” they serve as personal escorts to the pontiff, including on his apostolic …

Sep 14, 2022 · It has developed into a modern guard corps equipped with small arms, and members of the Swiss Guard in plain clothes now accompany the pope on his travels abroad …

May 18, 2018 · This was the beginning of the Pontifical Swiss Guard (Schweizergarde, Guardia Svizzera), a stable and disciplined corps of Swiss soldiers, entrusted with the protection of the …

Mar 31, 2023 · They’re known as the Swiss Guard, a group of men with Swiss citizenship selected and trained by the Swiss Armed Forces. They’re sometimes referred to as the Vatican City …

Jun 30, 2020 · The Swiss Guards are also known as Halberdiers, named after their primary weapon of choice – the halberd. Often called the “Swiss Voulge”, the medieval weapon packs …

Apr 11, 2012 · The modern-day Swiss Guard, the ‘military’ of Vatican City, is the smallest active army in the world and has been responsible for the safety of the Pope since 1506 when Pope …