Schweizergarde - Pontifical Swiss Guard

Not least because of their uniforms, members of the Pontifical Swiss Guard are amongst the most frequently photographed subjects in Rome. However the soldiers' guard duties at the entrances to the Vatican City form only a small part of lives, which remain hidden to most visitors to Rome.

Taking his camera, photographer Oliver Sittel accompanied the guardsmen through two years of service and daily life. The moments captured on film tell of a sense of duty, discipline and solidarity. At the same time they provide for a fascinating look behind the secret walls of the Vatican showing just how closely tradition and modernity are linked there.