1. Why are the former guards marching to Rome?

Because the Papal Swiss Guards have been serving the Vatican for 500 years. The first foot soldiers marched on foot to Rome in the winter of 1505-1506. They arrived on 22 January 1506 and immediately began their service. Former guards are on a memorial march following the same route taken by their comrades from Switzerland to Rome 500 years ago. They will begin on 7 April in Bellinzona, march the entire 720-kilometer route, and arrive in Rome on 4 May. The highpoint of the celebrations marking this event will take place in Rome on 6 May.

2. Who is behind the march?

A general organizing committee headed by Corps Cadet Beat Fischer and a special march committee under the direction of Colonel Eugenio Rüegger are behind the memorial march and this website. He is assisted by the following members of the march committee (with their position):

3. How can I support the memorial march?

There are three sponsoring levels for those who would like to contribute different amounts:

• Silver patrons contribute 100 Swiss francs and cover part of the route to Rome with this amount.
• Gold patrons contribute 500 Swiss francs and cover important points (village or town, monument, or cultural site) along the march route.
• Day sponsors contribute an amount over 2000 Swiss francs and thus have a presence as a sponsor on one of the 28 days throughout the march.

Your contributions and sponsoring amounts are well spent, because you are doing something good and supporting a project that has historic and sporting, cultural and spiritual importance. And with your sponsoring amount, you or your company are presented to half the world.

4. How can I stay informed?

You can get information daily here from 7 April to 6 May. We will insert photographs taken each day during the march. You can be part of this centennial event from start to finish!