The Swiss Guard is one of the oldest military units in operation and is often dubbed “the world’s smallest army” because it has only 135 members. Established in 1506 under Pope Julius II to protect the Holy Father, the guard of honour is known for its striking Renaissance-era uniforms, which are handmade in the Vatican.

The wool is sourced from Biella, northern Italy, and crafted into the colourful coat and trousers by the guard’s tailors, who custom-make them for each guardsman. The full regalia comprises 154 pieces and takes nearly 32 hours and three fittings to complete. While the cost of the uniform is difficult to determine, it is likely that a new helmet alone will set a soldier back £750, which is often raised through crowdfunding.

The full dress uniform is striped in blue, red, orange, and yellow, and it is topped with a morion helmet with red ostrich feathers. When all adorned, it weighs nearly 4kg, making it one of the heaviest and most complicated uniforms of any army.

Despite its small size, the Swiss Guard is considered an elite military unit and therefore has a highly selective hiring process.

Candidates must be unmarried Swiss Catholic males between the ages of 19 and 30, and be at least 5ft 8.5. Basic training with the Swiss Armed Forces and a professional or secondary school diploma are also required.

Applicants must be willing to serve for a minimum of 26 months, and once they are accepted, they are sworn in on May 6. During the ceremony, new guardsmen must repeat an oath of allegiance in the San Damaso Courtyard in the Vatican.

The oath states: “I swear that I will faithfully, loyally and honourably serve the Supreme Pontiff (name of Pope) and his legitimate successors, and dedicate myself to them with all my strength, sacrificing, if necessary, my life to defend them.

“I assume this same commitment with regard to the Sacred College of Cardinals whenever the Apostolic See is vacant.

“Furthermore, I promise the Captain Commandant and my other superiors respect, fidelity and obedience. I swear to observe all that the honour of my position demands of me.”

The Swiss Guard are currently protecting the Sistine Chapel as the sequestered cardinals elect a new pope.