The Pope's Personal Army Comes From A Long Line Of Mercenaries

Don't mistake these colorful gentlemen for anything less than trained killers.

In fact, they're part of a 500-year line of mercenaries who "took part in brief but glorious wars and then returned home with the "pay" and the booty."

New recruits in the Papal company of these Swiss mercs recently swore in last week — an annual ritual — and added a batch of 35 warriors to their ranks.

As Swiss troops, trained in Switzerland, they have a firm grasp of modern combat, small arms, and counter terrorism. The Vatican outfit numbers around 150 to 200.

They're on a paid contract to the Papacy ... one that's lasted 500 years.

Following centuries of relative Peace, an assassination attempt in the 80s prompted Guard authorities to implement more military training.

From the 14th on into the 19th centuries, Swiss Guards and mercenaries could be found in courts and castles all around Europe.

Their first major engagement for the Pope was in 1527, when 138 Swiss Guard fought to the last man defending the Pope during the sacking of Rome.

New recruits have to learn basic Italian, Vatican close order marching drill, and various riot control measures.