By Sohaib Shams
The Vatican Museums on Wednesday unveiled a preview of an exhibition commemorating "A Century of the Popemobile," featuring eight Mercedes-Benz vehicles used by popes since 1930. The display officially opens to the public on Thursday.
Historic Vehicles on Display
The oldest car in the exhibit is a Mercedes-Benz Nürburg 460 presented to Pope Pius XI on May 23, 1930. It features a luxurious armchair upholstered in silk brocade with fine wood and metal finishes, specially built for papal use.
Evolution of Papal Transport
Later models reflect changing needs for engagement with the faithful. A 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 d Landaulet given to Pope John XXIII had removable rear side windows, allowing the pope to reach out to crowds. For St. John Paul II's 1980 visit to Germany, Mercedes-Benz developed the 230 G with a tall, transparent rear dome providing safety and clear visibility.
Pope Leo XIV Meets Mercedes-Benz Executives
Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago-born car enthusiast, met with top Mercedes-Benz executives and thanked them for their partnership with the Holy See. He noted that the popemobile has evolved from a means of transportation into an instrument of encounter, enabling the pontiff to draw closer to the faithful. The pope also recalled the electric popemobile presented to Pope Francis in line with his ecological priorities.
Curator Highlights Design Changes
Sandro Barbagallo, curator of the Historical Collections Department at the Vatican Museums, said the 1930 vehicle shows the transition from a standard production car to a unique papal vehicle. He emphasized that subsequent cars were precisely designed to allow the pope to be seen and to see in total safety and comfort.
