Back

Feature film — 2025

The Pope's Mysterious Army (2025)

10.00h 43mDocumentary

It's the smallest and most mysterious army in the world: the Swiss Guard. The film follows these men of faith and combat, from their recruitment in Switzerland to their military training in the heart of the Vatican. Made up of 150 men, this elite corps lives in barracks in the center of Vatican City. All must be Swiss citizens and devout Catholics. They have all sworn to fight to the death to protect their faith and the Holy Father. They are heirs to a 500-year-old tradition in which the Pope's protection and security were ensured by Swiss mercenaries. Trained in the use of both halberds and semi-automatic rifles, the Swiss Guards form a unique army. But who are they really? What motivates these young men to join this military and religious body? A dive into a world normally closed to the cameras.

Watch now

The note

Stay for the details.

A high-signal pick with 1 votes.

DW

Community reviews

What viewers are saying

Sign in to leave a review for everyone to see. Reviews are tied to your account so the community can trust what's shared.

Loading reviews…

Director: Brando Baranzelli

Similar titles

More like this