Is the Vatican's Swiss Guard purely ceremonial (and bodyguard to the pope) or have they actually fought in a real battle?

Siskin

While much of the work of the present day guards is ceremonial, they are responsible for the security at the Apostolic Palace, the papal apartment and the four main entrances to the Vatican. They are also in charge of the pontiff's physical safety when he travels outside the city state. The Swiss Guard,the world's smallest and most colourful army has been the chief protectors of the pontiff. Clad in Renaissance helmets and blue,red and yellow tunics ( the colours of the Medici family) that are said to have been designed by Michelangelo. For routine work,the guards wear blue uniforms and berets. They currently consist of a total of 100 men: 4 officials,1 chaplain,23 noncommissioned officers,70 halbardiers, and 2 drummers.The halbard is the traditional weapon carried by Swiss Guards. The members of the Swiss Guard reside in a barrack in the Vatican City. They serve for 2 years, with the possiility of extending the period to a maximum of 25 years. During this period they receive training in self-defence, attend shooting practice, take courses in Italian and study the organizational structure of the Vatican. If you need the History,it's here: http://ch.c-d.org/ch/culture_swissguard.html Nov 05 02, 12:05 PM