Swiss Guard: Soldiers who do not go to war

Pope Francis walks past Swiss Guards. Swiss Guards are highly trained soldiers some of whom provided round the clock security to Pope Francis during his stay in Kenya. (PHOTO: COURTESY/ ASSOCIATED PRESS)

Swiss Guards are highly trained soldiers, some of whom provided round the clock security to Pope Francis during his stay in Kenya.

Also known as the Pontifical Swiss Guard of the Holy See, the unit is stationed at the Vatican in Rome and has a bodyguard-like role. It was officially established in January 22, 1506 and is now 510 years old - making it one of the oldest standing military units in the world.