Thursday, 24 January 2008

Swiss Guards! In Rome? (Vatican City)

"Swiss Guards are Swiss mercenary soldiers who have served as bodyguards, ceremonial guards, and palace guards at foreign European courts from the late 15th century until the present day (in the form of the Papal Swiss Guard). They have generally had a high reputation for discipline and loyalty to their employers. Some of these units have also served as fighting troops in the field. There were also regular Swiss mercenary regiments serving as line troops in various armies, notably those of France, Spain and Naples until the 19th century who were not household or guard units." (From my favourite site -- Wikipedia)  Oh and from me, the guards are really impressive!  They protect (and have always protected) the Pope, Vatican staff and of course, the tourists!  :)

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