Uniforms

Gala uniform

Probably the most famous uniform in the entire world, the so-called «Gala Uniform», owes it popularity largely to the design of commander Jules Repond (1910-1921). The famous colours of blue, red and yellow are the traditional colours of the Medici family. The blue and yellow cloth stripes interrupt in a flowing movement the red vest and pants. At the beginning of the 20th century, after much research and in accordance with the frescoes of Raphael, the hats were replaced with the Basque cap still worn today, on which the rank insignia can be seen. Furthermore, the white collar was introduced to replace the folded collar.

During public order, the guards wear white gloves, at honourable services during the papal ceremony they wear the black helmet, at state receptions for representation purposes additionally the time-honoured and at that time the weapon of the Swiss mercenaries, the halberd.

At Easter, Christmas and at the swearing-in ceremonies an additional 17th century armour complements the Gala uniform. This includes the striking white collar, the white gloves and a silver helmet with a red feather for the halberdiers, a dark purple feather for the officers and a white feather for the commander and the sergeant. On both sides of the silver helmet a relief of the founder’s Pope Julius II «della Rovere» family oak is depicted.

Exercise uniform

The so-called «Exercise uniform», the uniform worn for training and during night duties, is entirely blue. At the entrance to St. Anne's the same uniform is also worn during the week for practical reasons. The main roads are also located there, and the colourful Gala uniform would cause too much distraction for the motorists. These uniforms are worn with a white collar and white cuffs.

Representation uniform

When officers get invited to a gala occasion the red, velvet and very delicate gala-uniform is not appropriate to represent the corps officially. Instead they wear the black Representation uniform; this was modelled after the earlier officers Ordnance uniform.

Drummer

The drummers wear a yellow-black uniform with a black helmet and yellow-black feathers during their performances.

Mantle

In winter and when it rains, a mantle is worn to protect the uniform from the elements.

Training uniform

To participate in the growing offers in education in the section of Security an especially for the modern operations, a training uniform has been developed and implemented.