New Swiss Papal Guard recruits sworn in

New members of the Pontifical Guard swearing in — New recruits for the Pontifical Guard were sworn in at the weekend. Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.

The Pontifical Swiss Guard received 23 new recruits at a swearing-in ceremony at the Vatican on Saturday.

This content was published on May 7, 2023 - 10:54

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Viola Amherd, Defence Minister and Vice-President of Switzerland, attended the ceremony and held talks with Pope Francis and Commander of the Guard, Christoph Graf.

History

The Swiss soldiers guarding the pope

This content was published on May 5, 2016 “To be a Swiss Guard is a vocation. You need faith and deep conviction to follow this extraordinary and noble commitment,” says Colonel Christoph Graf, commander of the Pontifical Swiss Guard, which was formed in 1506 by Pope Julius II. This year, 23 new recruits will take the oath in the Vatican. May 6 commemorates…

Last month, Switzerland officially opened its new embassy to the Vatican, ending nine years of diplomatic links being conducted via Slovenia.

Switzerland has had diplomatic representation to the Holy See for more than 30 years ago, but relations have endured some difficult moments over the years.

In 2022 a Swiss foundation and the Vatican agreed the terms of the first phase for the renovation of the Papal Swiss Guard barracks.

The CHF45 million ($50 million) modernisation of three 19th-century buildings that house the Papal Guard and its administrative headquarters is expected to start in 2026.

piazza san pietro fotografata a velo del suolo. due turisti passeggiano

History

Switzerland’s cautious relationship with the Vatican

This content was published on Nov 18, 2021 Switzerland appointed its first diplomatic representative to the Holy See only 30 years ago. Bern now wants to open an embassy in the Vatican.

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