Former guardsmen immerse you in the exciting world of the Swiss Guard with their stories and experiences
Crises, wars, the struggle of rulers for lands and honour - Europe knows many war campaigns in the decades around 1500, which are conducted with mercenaries. The Confederates are known for their loyalty as well as their 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. Discover the museum on the private guided tour with exciting stories from a former guardsman. 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 recreated living quarters from the 1500s, 1900s and 2000s, you will learn why young men went to Rome then and now. You will also learn more about the everyday life of a guardsman. In the second half of the tour, you will go to the part of the museum that is still in its original state: endless rows of concrete racks where thousands of bullets for the cannons were once stored. Today, they contain personal items that Guardsmen and their relatives gave to the Swiss Guard Museum.
Photo albums, medals, the Golden Record of the Guard music, wedding shoes, identity cards from the Vatican and much more. Familiar and unexpected, precious as well as kitschy.
Notes
Language: German, French, Italian and English
Payment: Invoice in electronic form or cash on site
Wheelchair accessibility: the entire Garda Museum is wheelchair accessible
Dogs: are welcome
Date and time:on request
Other options: Guard Experience (guided tour and culinary), Overnight stay in the fortress (from 10 pers.)
