Wow the Pope's Swiss Guards Reveal New Uniforms in a Formal Style

The Pope’s personal guard the Swiss Guard has a new uniform. The Swiss Guard is the oldest active army in the world with 135 members. 

They just released a new uniform: a black design, made from Swiss wool, with golden buttons engraved with the keys — the symbol of the Holy See.

The new attire was used until the time of Pope Paul VI and is “semi-formal.” Thus, it will be used on special and official occasions, particularly, outside the Vatican, in visits to embassies.
Not all of the guards will use the donated uniforms as they cost about €2,000 per outfit. 


The traditional Medici-style uniform normally used by the guards is staying.

The new representation uniform, presented, is designed to allow our officers to represent the Guard and the Holy See with dignity during receptions, dinners, and official meetings.
Until now, the officers only had personal suits, which did not fully reflect the identity of the Corps.
Inspired by the former “mezza gala” worn until 1976, itself descending from 19th-century military uniforms, this new uniform continues a centuries-old tradition

This year, the date of the swearing-in is October 4, however, the ceremony is usually held on May 6, the day that remembers the Sack of Rome.