Dive into the exciting world of the Swiss Guard and get to know the past and present of the Pope's bodyguard better.
Crises, wars, the struggle of rulers for lands and honour - Europe knows many war campaigns in the decades around 1500, which are led with mercenaries. The Confederates are known for their loyalty and striking power and are therefore popular at the courts as bodyguards. Founded in 1506 by Julius II, the Guard still protects the Pope and his Papal Palace.
There is much to discover about the Pope's Life Guard in the Museum of the Swiss Guard. The museum is divided into two parts:
Part 1 History Present Contemporary Witnesses
The 50-metre-long ammunition hall now houses a permanent exhibition. On a timeline, you will meet the Guard commanders of the last 500 years in portrait form.
In reconstructed living quarters from the 1500s, 1900s and 2000s, you will find explanations as to why young men went or are going to Rome then and now. On information pillars, you follow 24 hours in the everyday life of a modern-day Guardsman and see historical photos.
Part 2 The Guard's Treasury
The second half is there in its original state: endless rows of concrete racks where thousands of bullets for the cannons were once stored. Today they contain personal items given to the Swiss Guard Museum by Guardsmen and their relatives.
Photo albums, medals, the Golden Record of the Guard music, wedding shoes, identity card from the Vatican and much more. Familiar and unexpected, precious as well as kitschy.
Notes
Dogs: are welcome
Opening hours: June-October, Saturdays 14.00-17.00
Payment: cash on site
Wheelchair accessibility: the entire Garda Museum is wheelchair accessible
