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Well, today the guards are still some kind of bodyguards... but it's mainly a sign of sympathy - as Switzerland has been a leading force of reformation, what cost the catholic church much of its influence in Europe at the end of the medieval age.
As a consequence of occupation three states formed an agreement in 1291 giving birth to the country Switzerland (now consisting of 20 full and 6 semi-states) - this defence coalition against the earls of Habsburgs led to several battles. The troops, now appearing under the sign of the state of Schwyz (giving name and flag) fought several battles against opponents - making Swiss mercenaries a famous and expensive war equipment until 1515.
Swiss mercenaries also fought in northern Italy (Milan was under Swiss control), especially during the milanese wars. The pope used mercenaries as protection squad. After a break due to reformation, Switzerland sent again guards as bodyguards for the pope - their uniform is tradition. Their equipment is modern, the Swiss guards are part of the Swiss army - the only situation they are allowed to served for Another Country.
Wiki User
∙ 12y ago
Wiki User
∙ 12y agoThe pope is a head of state and, like any leader of a country, he has his body guards to protect him from the twisted minds in our society who resolve their problems by injuring or killing others.
Wiki User
∙ 12y agoBecause that's what the rules say. The Pontifical Guard have for centuries been a company of Swiss guards, and their rules require that they all must be male Swiss Catholics (they don't necessarily have to be of Swiss descent, but they do have to be Swiss citizens with Swiss military training).
Wiki User
∙ 9y agoThe Swiss Guard protects the pope. The Vatican has its own police force.
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What is the bodyguard of the pope called?
The Swiss GuardThey are called a Swiss guard.
What colors are the uniforms of Swiss guard's who are responsible for the popes safety uniforms who are responsible for the popes safety?
Orange and blue
Are the Popes Swiss Guard similar to the US Secret Service?
Yes
Who have been responsible for the popes safety?
The Swiss Guard celebrated their 500th anniversary of protecting the Pope in 2006.
Are there popes that are not named?
No, the Church has had 266 popes (as of 2013) and all have had names.
Are all popes white?
In the early centuries of the Church there were three popes from northern Africa but nothing is known of their races. All other popes have been caucasian.
What are the popes' names and where are they from?
For a complete list of all the popes and their birth places, click here.
What religion were the first 15 popes?
Catholic, as all the Popes are. The Pope is the leader of the Catholic Church.
Are all the popes buried in St. Peter's Basilica?
While a number of popes are buried in St. Peter's Basilica, not all of them are buried there.
What states can you work as a bodyguard with no license?
all of them
What were the popes' names before they became popes?
The list is too large to publish here so click here for where you can find a list of all the popes and their birth names.
Was there any married catholic popes?
See the link below for a list of all married or sexually active popes.
