Defense and Protective Formations of the Holy See: An Outline of History, Transformations, and Development until 1870

Abstract

The article outlines the subject of the defensive and protective formations of the Holy See, starting from the first popes until the fall of the Papal States in 1870. The issue of the security of the Bishop of Rome, and later the defense and protection of the territorial integrity of the Papal States, was – starting from the early Middle Ages – one of the key elements of international politics. In the Middle Ages, specialization of formations took place, and mercenary troops recruited from Western European knights played an increasingly important role. However, already in 1378, the Horse Guard was established. Starting from the 14^th century, units based on the patricians and Roman aristocracy were created. The history of the Pontifical Swiss Guard, dating back to 1506, initiated a new chapter in the history of the defense and protection formations of the Holy See, which continues to this day. At the same time – in modern times – further noble formations were established and liquidated, also performing honorary functions. These included the Knights of Our Lord’s Guard, also known as the Knights of the Head of the Church’s Bodyguard or the Corps of ‘Broken Lances’. Later, a similar role was played by the City Guard, Noble Guard, Selected City Guard, and Palace Guard. The last defensive and protective formation of the Holy See were the Papal Zouaves associated with the defense of the Papal States and Rome in 1870.