The world’s oldest army, the Swiss Guards, has unveiled a new uniform, though their iconic Renaissance-era attire remains untouched. This additional ensemble, designed for formal, non-ceremonial events such as diplomatic receptions or official dinners beyond the Vatican walls, was showcased by Colonel Christoph Graf, the commander.
He presented the new look at the army's barracks, ahead of the annual swearing-in ceremony for 27 new recruits this Saturday. The uniform itself is a black wool suit, featuring two rows of buttons, a distinctive yellow and white belt, and a Mao-style collar. Colonel Graf explained that this design is, in fact, a faithful recreation of a centuries-old suit previously worn by Swiss Guard officials, which had been phased out in 1976.
