Swiss Guard to commemorate 500th anniversary of Sack of Rome

The Pontifical Swiss Guard is planning a commemorative year in 2027 to mark the 500th anniversary of the Sack of Rome. The event honors the 147 guards who died on May 6, 1527, while defending St. Peter’s Basilica and escorting Pope Clement VII to safety at Castel Sant’Angelo.

Commander Col. Christoph Graf described the 1527 event as “one of the most defining events” in the history of the force. The commemorations will begin with a history conference in Brig, Switzerland, on January 23, 2027, and will include the release of a publication regarding the political, military, and religious circumstances of that era.

Additional activities include participation in Zurich’s Sechseläuten festival in April, honoring the Zurich-born commander Kaspar Röist. The anniversary will culminate at the Vatican from May 5-7 with a Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica, the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, and a light-art projection.