Vatican exhibit documents 500-year history of Swiss Guard

Published: 2006-03-28

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- A special exhibit has opened at the Vatican documenting the 500-year history of the Swiss Guard, the smallest and oldest military corps in the world. From March 29 to July 30, visitors to the Braccio di Carlomagno near St. Peter's Basilica can get a glimpse of artwork, objects and armor spanning the past half-millennium of what is also the most photographed army in history. The commander of the Guard, Col. Elmar Mader, said at a March 28 press conference that the exhibit, "The Papal Swiss Guard: 500 Years of History, Art and Life," aims to give visitors a taste of what has motivated generations of Swiss men to guard the life and safety of the pope -- even at the risk of their own lives. The special exhibit was also a chance for the Guard to "be in contact with the public, so we will have about ten former Swiss Guards manning the halls," providing security and public relations, he added.

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