When did Louis XI of France retain the Hundred Swiss for his personal guard?
Louis XI of France retained a Swiss company for his personal guard in 1480. This small force became known as the Hundred Swiss or Cent-Suisses.
Questions about Swiss Guards
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What happened to Francis I's Hundred Swiss during the Battle of Pavia in 1525?
During the Battle of Pavia in 1525, the entire contingent of Francis I's Hundred Swiss were killed before he was captured by Spanish forces. They shared indoor guard duties with the French King's Bodyguards and served at the French court from 1490 until 1817.
How many Swiss Guards defended the Tuileries Palace on the 10th of August 1792?
Nine hundred Swiss Guards defended the Tuileries Palace on the 10th of August 1792 during the French Revolution. About six hundred of these defenders were killed during fighting or massacred after surrendering.
Who dedicated the Lion Monument in Lucerne in 1821 to honor fallen Swiss Guardsmen?
Bertel Thorvaldsen dedicated the Lion Monument in Lucerne in 1821 to honor fallen Swiss Guardsmen. The sculpture depicts a dying lion collapsed upon broken symbols of the French monarchy.
When did foreign powers ban recruitment of Swiss soldiers under federal law?
A federal law amended on the 30th of September 1859 banned recruitment by foreign powers. Individual volunteering continued until prohibited outright in 1927 under the Militärstrafgesetz.
What is the status of the modern Papal Swiss Guard established in 1506?
Established in 1506, the modern Papal Swiss Guard serves as both ceremonial unit and bodyguard. It stands as one of the oldest military units in the world and functions as the smallest army globally.