Standing with swords and spears and clad in colorful conquests are the Swiss Guards stationed at the Papal Palace in the Vatican.

The watch industry became a major industry.17Before the late 19th century, the mercenary industry supported Switzerland and Pope Julius2The Swiss were so strong that the emperor promoted them to the ranks of his standing army. They were the strongest infantry force in Europe during the Renaissance.

also now135A group of three elite men guard the Pope's person and are equipped with automatic pistols and other modern weapons. They accompany the Pope on his outings and play an important role in the ceremonies of visiting dignitaries.

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