vatican cityAP —
The Vatican will hold a ceremony to commemorate the Papal Mobile, the now-iconic vehicle that has allowed the pope to connect with the faithful at home and abroad for nearly a century.
The Vatican Museums on Wednesday released a preview of an exhibition commemorating “A Century of Popemobiles,” featuring eight Mercedes-Benz versions used by the pope since 1930. It will officially open to the public on Thursday.
Separately, Pope Leo XIV, a huge car enthusiast, met with Mercedes-Benz executives and expressed his gratitude for the partnership with the Holy See. In his address, the Chicago-born pope noted that advances in automobile technology have accompanied the advancement and evolution of papal travel.
“Over the decades, the Popemobile has evolved from a means of transportation to a means of encounter, allowing the Pope to be closer to the faithful during pastoral visits and public celebrations,” Leo said. “In this way, your work has helped further the Church’s mission to reach people and bring the message of faith, hope and charity to the world.”
The oldest car on display in the Vatican Museums was presented to Pope Pius XI on May 23, 1930. The Mercedes-Benz Nürburg 460 featured luxurious armchairs with silk brocade upholstery and fine wood and metal finishes.
“This book was created, designed and prepared specifically for the Pope, so much so that just by comparing it you can see how it goes from serial to unique,” said Sandro Barbagallo, curator of historical collections at the Vatican Museums.
“From this point of view, it is clear how all cars were made in those days: made exactly so that the Pope could see and be perfectly safe and even comfortable,” he said.
The later versions of the papal mobile on display reflect the changing needs of the pope during his travels, most importantly his need to engage with the faithful and, more recently, bless babies brought in.
In 1960, Pope John XXIII received a 300d Landaulet with details that foreshadowed change. Removable rear side windows allowed the future saint to reach out to those he met along the way.
In 1980, Mercedes-Benz developed the 230 G for the visit of St. John Paul II to Germany. This car featured another major innovation. It had a tall transparent dome at the rear, which not only provided security but also ensured a clear view for the millions of faithful who gathered to see St. John Paul II.
In his remarks to Mercedes-Benz executives, Leo recalled the electric Pope Mobile he presented to Pope Francis in line with the Argentine Pope’s environmental priorities.
“In this spirit, we encourage continued innovation for human dignity, creation, and the common good,” he said.
