Say goodbye to the old metal Morions and make way for innovation, even in the Papal State. This is what the new PVC helmets designed for the Swiss Guards will look like
New technologies are also landing in the Vatican: soon the traditional helmets of the Swiss Guards will be 3D printed. Until today, the so-called Morioni were made of metal, a heavy and antiquated material, capable of creating not a few discomforts to those who wore them. The change is therefore revolutionary and promises to improve the lives of the Guards.
It will also give a touch of innovation to the entire Papal State. Morions, along with the famous colored uniform, have been worn by the Papal Guards since 1914. The shape of the helmet recalls the same model used throughout Europe between the 16th and 17th centuries. The flaps have a characteristic crescent shape, which will be renewed with the new 3D models. The novelty will not distort the appearance of the Guards, but the more observant will be able to notice the change. Certainly, the new Morions will be more comfortable and lighter, and will improve the quality of life of papal collaborators.
What will the new 3D helmets of the Swiss Guards look like?
The new Morion will be lighter than the current one, made of metal. This material retains heat and can become hot during sultry summer days, even causing burns and sunstroke to the Vatican Guards. This revolution is far from obvious, considering that these men are forced to stand for hours under the sun. The metal will therefore be retired, in favor of modern PVC, which is UV resistant.
The new helmets will maintain the original shape, in fact they will be made on the basis of models dating back to the sixteenth century. Another essential characteristic is certainly the weight and the conformation: just 530 grams placed on the head (compared to the previous 2 Kg), where a system of slits will stand out to let the skin transpire. Until now, the helmets were made only by specialized craftsmen, and the work took about 130 hours for each piece. It will take just 14 hours to produce a 3D helmet.
The announcement of the innovation was made in 2018, when the Swiss Guard announced the arrival of a new helmet made in 3D, lighter and more comfortable. A total of 120 new helmets have been ordered, delivered to the guards starting January 22. There is also no concern from the security point of view: the new Morions will be used by the Guards during important papal ceremonies, such as masses and state visits.
Once again, 3D printing is being used in a very productive and useful way, and in the future it will surely be used more and more to build objects necessary for everyday life.