Päpstliche Schweizergarde launches 500th anniversary commemoration of Sacco di Roma

The Pontifical Swiss Guard will hold a commemorative year in 2027 to mark the 500th anniversary of the Sack of Rome. The upcoming commemorations honor guardsmen who died defending Pope Clement VII on May 6, 1527. During that event, 147 guardsmen lost their lives while 42 others escorted the pope to safety.

The 2027 program includes a conference in Brig in January, the publication of a historical volume, and participation in the Zurich Spring Festival.

The Vatican will host central celebrations from May 5 to May 7, 2027. These events are scheduled to include a pilgrimage, light shows, and the premiere of a film about the Guard.