Vatican Museums host exhibition on the evolution of the popemobile

The Vatican Museums have launched a new exhibition titled “A Century of the Popemobile,” showcasing eight historic Mercedes-Benz vehicles used by various popes since 1930. The collection, housed in a glass pavilion in the Giardino Quadrato, tracks the technological and functional evolution of these vehicles.

The exhibition begins with a 1930 Mercedes-Benz Nürburg 460 gifted to Pope Pius XI, which featured silk brocade upholstery and noble wood finishes. The display highlights how the vehicles transitioned from standard series models to unique instruments designed for security, visibility, and closer contact with the faithful during pastoral visits.

Barbara Jatta, director of the Vatican Museums, noted that Mercedes-Benz has supplied most of the vehicles used by popes over the last century. The exhibition is scheduled to run until January.