What does the name Pope mean?

What does the name Pope mean?

The word pope derives from Greek πάππας (páppas), meaning ‘father’. In the early centuries of Christianity, this title was applied, especially in the east, to all bishops and other senior clergy, and later became reserved in the west to the bishop of Rome, a reservation made official only in the 11th century.

What does Vatican translate to?

The word Vatican comes from Old Latin ‘vatis’ = prophetic & ‘can’ = serpent/dragon.

What language is spoken in Vatican City?

Italian

Are the Swiss Guards Swiss?

Swiss Guards (French: Gardes Suisses; German: Schweizergarde; Italian: Guardie Svizzere) are Swiss soldiers who have served as guards at foreign European courts since the late 15th century. The modern Papal Swiss Guard serves as both a ceremonial unit and a bodyguard.

Do the Swiss Guards carry guns?

The Swiss Guard are equipped with traditional weapons, such as the halberd, as well as with modern firearms. Since the failed assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II in 1981, a much stronger emphasis has been placed on the Guard’s non-ceremonial roles, and has seen enhanced training in unarmed combat and small arms.

What language do the Swiss Guard speak?

Swiss German

How long can you be a Swiss Guard?

Before, only officers and long-serving guards could marry. Now, a guard who wishes to become engaged must be 25 years old and must pledge to remain in service for another three years.

Who can become a Swiss Guard?

New recruits must be unmarried Roman Catholic males with Swiss citizenship, between 19 and 30 years of age, and at least 5 feet 8 inches (1.74 metres) tall; they must have a professional diploma or high school degree and must complete basic training with the Swiss military.

What is the oldest part of the Vatican?

Peter’s Basilica was the building that stood, from the 4th to 16th centuries, where the new St. Peter’s Basilica stands today in Vatican City. Construction of the basilica, built over the historical site of the Circus of Nero, began during the reign of Emperor Constantine I.