Vatican City, 03.05.2025

Press Release

Commemoration of 6 May

On 6 May 2025, the Pontifical Swiss Guard will commemorate the 147 guards who fell heroically in the Sack of Rome in 1537, defending the Holy Father, Pope Clement VII. The ceremony will take place in the courtyard of honour of the Barracks of the Guard, in a strictly reserved context.

The commemoration will begin at 11.00 with the deposition of a wreath at the monument to the fallen, located inside the barracks. This will be followed by an address from the Commander of the Swiss Pontifical Guard, Colonel Christoph Graf. In this moment of contemplation, the Pontifical Swiss Guard will pay homage to the sacrifice of its predecessors who gave their lives for the protection of the Supreme Pontiff.

Images for use by the media will be made available by the Pontifical Swiss Guard.

Media contact: Corporal Eliah Cinotti / + 39 0669898100 / media@gsp.va