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A popemobile exhibition is unveiled at the Vatican, featuring the vehicle popes have used since 1930
CNN • • world
Key Points:
- The Vatican Museums have unveiled an exhibition titled “A Century of the Popemobile,” showcasing eight Mercedes-Benz popemobiles used by popes since 1930, with the official public opening on Thursday.
- Pope Leo XIV, a car enthusiast, met with Mercedes-Benz executives to thank them for their collaboration, highlighting how automotive advances have enhanced papal travel and engagement with the faithful.
- The oldest popemobile on display, a 1930 Mercedes-Benz Nürburg 460 given to Pope Pius XI, was specially designed for papal use, marking the transition from standard cars to unique, safety-focused vehicles.
- Later models reflect evolving papal needs, such as the 1960 300 d Landaulet with removable windows for closer contact, and the 1980 230 G featuring a transparent dome for safety and visibility during public appearances.
- Pope Leo also praised the electric popemobile presented to Pope Francis, urging continued innovation that supports human dignity, environmental care, and the common good.
