Monday, September 29, 2014

Swiss Guard Fountain in the Vatican

Constructed under the reign of Pius XI -- commemorating the Swiss Guard's gallant defense of the tomb of St. Peter and of Peter himself, during the tragic sack of Rome in 1527.  Only 42 members of the Swiss Guard survived, along with the Pope himself, due to the heroic bravery of the rearguard which ensured that Pope Clement VII was able to escape to safety. 

Militibus Helvetiorum Custodiae Palatinae Qui Summum Defendentes Pontificem Pridie Nonas Maias A. MDXXVII Gloriose Ceciderunt.  Patria Memor.  

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