Why does the Swiss Guard protect the Pope and the Vatican? It all started in the early 1500s, when Swiss soldiers had a reputation as the toughest mercenaries in Europe. Kings of France and Spain hired them all the time for protection and for war. In 1505, Pope Julius II made a deal with the Swiss cantons to send him a unit of soldiers. And ever since then, the Swiss have been guarding the Vatican. | Buro Facts

The world's oldest army has a new look, as the Pope's Swiss Guard unveils its new uniforms. | Sky News Australia

New uniforms for the Swiss Guard Unveiled! Which is better the former or later? The dark blue uniforms visible in the first two photos were unveiled in the Vatican today. No need to worry about the iconic old ones The famous blue, red, and yellow uniforms remain unchanged. They will continue to be handmade by the Swiss Guard tailor. It was not, as some people claim, Michelangelo who designed the iconic Swiss Guard uniform. In fact, the uniform was introduced at the beginning of the 20th century