Vatican Unveils Exhibition Featuring Popemobiles Used by Popes Since 1930
The Vatican has opened a new exhibition showcasing the history of the popemobile, tracing nearly a century of papal transportation from the first official vehicle in 1930 to modern models.
Titled “A Century of the Popemobile,” the exhibition is being held at the Vatican Museums. It features eight Mercedes-Benz vehicles used by different popes over the decades.
The launch was marked by a meeting between Pope Leo XIV and senior Mercedes-Benz executives. During the meeting, the pontiff expressed appreciation for the company’s long-standing relationship with the Holy See and highlighted how advances in automotive technology have changed papal transportation.
Pope Leo XIV Highlights the Role of the Popemobile
According to Pope Leo XIV, the popemobile has evolved beyond being a means of transportation. It has become a way for the pope to meet and connect with Catholics during public appearances, pastoral visits and major celebrations.
He also encouraged the automotive industry to ensure that technological progress supports human dignity, environmental protection and the common good.
From the First Papal Car to Modern Models
The oldest vehicle on display is a 1930 Mercedes-Benz Nürburg 460, presented to Pope Pius XI on May 23, 1930.
The specially designed vehicle featured a luxurious silk brocade armchair, alongside finely crafted wood and metal finishes.
Sandro Barbagallo, curator of the Historical Collections Department at the Vatican Museums, explained that the vehicle was customised specifically for papal use rather than remaining a standard production model.
Also Read: Court Bars Uzodinma, Declares Okorocha APC Primary Winner
Other notable vehicles include the 1960 Mercedes-Benz 300 d Landaulet, presented to Pope John XXIII. It featured removable rear side windows that allowed the pontiff to reach out and greet people during journeys.
The exhibition also features the 1980 Mercedes-Benz 230 G, developed for Pope John Paul II’s visit to Germany. The vehicle introduced a tall, transparent rear dome that provided protection while allowing large crowds to see the pope clearly.
Vatican Also Highlights Electric Popemobile
The exhibition also reflects the Church’s interest in sustainable technology.
During his remarks, Pope Leo XIV recalled the electric popemobile previously presented to Pope Francis.
He urged Mercedes-Benz executives to continue developing technology that respects human dignity, protects the environment and contributes to the common good.
The exhibition offers visitors an opportunity to explore how papal transportation has changed over nearly 100 years, while highlighting the relationship between the Vatican and Mercedes-Benz.
