Mercedes-Benz Popemobile Exhibition Now on Show at the Vatican
Summary
A Mercedes-Benz popemobile exhibition has gone on display at the Vatican, tracing a century of papal transport from a 1930 limousine to the fully electric G 580 of 2024. Titled A Century of the Popemobile, it runs until 31 January 2027 and features only Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Key Highlights
- The oldest vehicle is a Nürburg 460, presented to Pope Pius XI on 23 May 1930.
- The Mercedes-Benz popemobile exhibition also covers cars built for John XXIII, Paul VI and John Paul II.
- The ML 430 (2002) and ML 500 (2012) carry thick bulletproof glass.
- The modified G 580 became the Vatican’s first fully electric popemobile in 2024.
What Happened?
The Vatican has put a century of Mercedes-Benz papal vehicles on show. The collection opens with the 1930 Nürburg 460, a limousine whose armchair is upholstered in raspberry-coloured silk brocade. By 1960, the 300 d Landaulet built for John XXIII had removable rear side windows, so he could engage with crowds more easily. Five years later, the 600 Pullman Landaulet gave Paul VI a raised roof and folding soft top, letting him stand and greet pilgrims directly.
Why is it Important?
The displays show how the popemobile grew out of the ceremonial car. The 230 G, developed in 1980 for John Paul II’s visit to Germany, introduced the tall transparent enclosure that protects the pontiff while keeping him visible. Other manufacturers have supplied vehicles to popes, but this exhibition looks at Mercedes-Benz alone.
Impact and Implications
Seen together, the vehicles trace the pull between public contact and security. The ML models added heavy glass protection, while the electric popemobile shows the Vatican following the wider shift in car technology. Barbara Jatta, director of the Vatican Museums, says the exhibition aims to showcase a century of papal journeys.
What Happens Next?
The Mercedes-Benz popemobile exhibition stays open until 31 January 2027. The report does not say where in the Vatican it is held or how to book, so visitors should check with the Vatican Museums before planning a trip.
