The tradition of Swiss mercenaries serving as guards in foreign courts was well-established by the 16th century. Swiss soldiers were highly regarded for their discipline, loyalty, and combat effectiveness. On January 22, 1506, a group of 150 Swiss soldiers entered the Vatican for the first time, marking the official founding of the guard. Their most famous historical moment occurred during the Sack of Rome in 1527, when 147 guards sacrificed their lives to allow Pope Clement VII to escape to safety. Requirements for Service
Some have described feeling isolated and alone, forced to hide their true selves in order to maintain their positions in the Guard. Others have spoken about the difficulties of navigating the complexities of Vatican bureaucracy, where even the slightest hint of scandal can have serious consequences. Gay-.BelAmi.-.Scandal.in.the.Vatican.2.The.Swiss.Guard.Part