Recognising its dual Italian and Swiss heritage, the Bertarelli Foundation has for several years provided financial assistance to the Pontifical Swiss Guard of the Holy See. With a long tradition, dating back to the 16th century, it is one of the oldest military units in the world and plays an important role in the security and safety of the Pope and the Apostolic Palace.
The Bertarelli Foundation supports the education of the Swiss Guards’ children at a bi-lingual Swiss school in Rome. This is important as these children will eventually return to Switzerland once their father’s duty ends. The Foundation also helps the Guards find employment at the end of their service and provides for the maintenance of their accommodation at the Vatican.