Purpose of the Foundation
The Foundation for the Renovation of the Barracks of the Pontifical Swiss Guard in the Vatican – referred to as the Barracks Foundation – was established in Solothurn in 2016. Its purpose is to renew the barracks buildings and the associated infrastructure of the Pontifical Swiss Guard in the Vatican.
The Foundation is a tax-exempt, non-profit organisation and is subject to the supervision of the competent Swiss authorities. It is chaired by Jean-Pierre Roth, former Chairman of the Swiss National Bank. The Patronage Committee, chaired by former Swiss Federal Councillor Doris Leuthard, supports the Foundation in raising the funds required for the project.
A new barracks for the Pontifical Swiss Guard
The current barracks buildings date back to the 19th century and no longer meet today’s structural, spatial and operational requirements. At the same time, the needs of the Pontifical Swiss Guard and its members have evolved considerably over recent decades.
The renewal of the barracks will provide the Guards and their families with a modern home as well as a contemporary working and living environment. The project aims to combine the Guard’s functional requirements with the unique historical and architectural characteristics of this exceptional site within the Vatican.
Over the past few years, the project has been further developed in close consultation with the relevant authorities and is now progressing towards implementation. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027.
The project at a glance
Detailed and up-to-date information on the new barracks, the current status of the project, its financing and the various ways of supporting the Barracks Foundation can be found on the Foundation’s official website.
Brochure Barrackfoundation Swiss Pontifical Guard
Film Barrackfoundation Swiss Pontifical Guard
Contact
Foundation for the Renovation of the Barracks of the Papal Swiss Guard in the Vatican
Business office:
Susanne Hostettler-Birrer
Käferholzstrasse 56
CH-4058 Basel
+41 (0)76 323 19 99
info(at)kasernenstiftung-schweizergarde.ch
Media requests
medien(at)kasernenstiftung-schweizergarde.ch
Bank:
IBAN CH06 0027 9279 3181 5201 J (CHF)
IBAN CH29 0027 9279 3181 5260 A (USD)
IBAN CH60 0027 9279 3181 5261 V (EUR)
