What do they do all day?
2007-05-02 09:42:14 · 19 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
"protect" the vatican and all of the ancient text the vatican keeps secret out of fear, statues, all combined are worth trillions of dollars if not priceless. AKA stand around and make sure nothing bad happens.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swiss_guard
2007-05-02 09:44:30 · answer #1 · answered by BOB 4 · 2⤊ 2⤋
The Swiss Guard in Vatican City are the equivalent of the Secret Service for the President of the United States. They also serve the same job as the British Guards perform around the Palace. They fill a traditional role as ceremonial guards. Unlike the British the Swiss Guard carry the same pikes that were originally issued to the guard in the 15th century. You see them in Vatican City guarding the Pope’s residence and inspecting in coming cars. They are a clear, but subtle element inside the grounds of Saint Peter’s. However, the guard is not full of people who are historic actors, but they are a real protective service.
Originally they were mercenaries and so loyal only to the person that paid them, but over time it became a duty of Switzerland to supply the Pope's bodyguard.
Today it is a high honor to be a member of the Swiss Guard. All of them are members of the Swiss Military and compete in a tough training program just to get the honor of serving.
The traditional uniforms and weapons they carry are the same that were used in the Renaissance period. Michelangelo designed their uniforms; he made them bold and colorful so the guard would be noticed. But, that is only the show. The Swiss Guard are also dressed in plain clothing, armed and identifiable by the radio earpiece in their ears.
For more information and pictures of the uniforms I suggest that you read the following Wikipedia article: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swiss_Guard
2007-05-02 16:58:08 · answer #2 · answered by Dan S 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When kings and princes were putting together armies, the always looked for Swiss mercenaries. The Swiss were incredible fighters and lived with a motto "Take No Prisoners," so all on the battlefield would be killed
2007-05-02 17:15:26 · answer #3 · answered by Polyhistor 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Historically, the Swiss Guard, known for its bravery and skill, was in charge of guarding the Pope.
2007-05-02 16:45:30 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
You should inquire from the Swiss Navy!
2007-05-02 16:47:55 · answer #5 · answered by Sam 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Follow the Pope around; protect the Vatican museum, cathedrals, and archives from tourists and nutcases.
2007-05-02 16:52:05 · answer #6 · answered by teresathegreat 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Pretty much serve as papal bodyguards, they have a lot of decorative weapons, that serve little purpose in modern times (halberds, swords). They are however also trained in many bodyguard techniques so they are true bodyguards.
2007-05-02 16:45:11 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
The keep the cheese from spoiling duuu
2007-05-02 16:48:29 · answer #8 · answered by † H20andspirit 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's the security force of the vatican.
They also have some ceremonial duties.
2007-05-02 16:47:42 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Stand around and protect the Vatican's wealth and secrets.
2007-05-02 16:45:38 · answer #10 · answered by gwhiz1052 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋