The Pontifical Swiss Guard is an armed force and honour guard unit. Maintained by the Holy See that is responsible for protecting the Pope and the Apostolic Palace within the territory of the Vatican City State, it is considered an elite military unit and highly selective in its recruitment. The Swiss Guard is trained in using both traditional halberds and modern firearms.
The security mission of Swiss Guard extends to the Pope’s apostolic travels, the pontifical palace of Castel Gandolfo, and the College of Cardinals when the papal throne is vacant. The Swiss Guard has its origins in the 15th century and is one of the oldest military units in the world. To join the Swiss Guard, it is mandatory to be between 19 and 30 years of age, at least 5 feet 8 inches tall and male. Apart from this, the candidate of the army must be a citizen of Switzerland and a Roman Catholic.
The small contingent of 150 soldiers is incredibly devoted and loyal, dedicating themselves to protecting the Pope at all costs. Vatican City itself is a mere 100 acres, with around 496 people calling it home. Despite its size, it draws millions of visitors every year, cementing its status as an important destination on the global tourist map.
The Pope’s security lies in the hands of a small, elite unit of 150 soldiers who show extraordinary loyalty and dedication. Despite its tiny size of just 100 acres and a population of around 496, Vatican City holds immense global significance. Every year, millions of tourists flock there, ensuring its stature as a prominent world destination.
Pope Francis on Friday met Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati at the Vatican. According to a press release by the Holy See, the meeting, which took place at the Secretariat of State, focused on the good diplomatic relations that exist between the Holy See and Lebanon, as well as the importance of the contribution of the Catholic Church and the Christian component to the good of Lebanon.
It added that after the ceasefire with Israel in the south of the country, ‘”the hope was reiterated that the peaceful coexistence of different religions would continue to characterize Lebanon’s identity”.
(With inputs from agencies)
