The Swiss Guard

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Getting ready for duty. swissinfo.ch

Guarding the Scala Regia (Royal Staircase), part of the formal entrance to the Vatican. swissinfo.ch

In the chaos of the Rome traffic. swissinfo.ch

Next to the Portone de Bronzo (Bronze Door). swissinfo.ch

Surveillance also sometimes makes use of modern technology, such as video. swissinfo.ch

An audience with the pope. swissinfo.ch

Changing of the guard next to the entrance to the Arco delle Campane (Arch of the Bells). swissinfo.ch

Having a break. swissinfo.ch

After the changing of the guard it's time to head back to the residence. swissinfo.ch

Keeping fit by using weights. swissinfo.ch

Taking an Italian lesson. swissinfo.ch

Free time in Rome. swissinfo.ch

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The Swiss Guard has been protecting the pontiff for over 500 years. It is most recognisable for its Renaissance-style garb in the colours of the Medici family.

Visitors to the Vatican can see the Pope’s soldiers guarding various entrances carrying their halberds, a sort of combined spear and battleaxe. The guards also carry out plainclothes security duties around the Pope whenever he moves in public. Members of the Swiss Guard are trained in self-defence and the use of firearms.

(Photos by Monika Flückiger, Keystone)