This year's theme, presented both in English (“Royal Gardens") and in Latin (“Horti Regis"), highlights the timeless importance of gardens. The desire to be surrounded by beauty is as old as mankind itself. In every time and culture artists have arranged natural elements into gardens to please all of the senses. Emperors and Kings assured that their gardens were planned with as much care as their castles, and some of these gardens were counted among the wonders of the world. The 2016 Rex Procession takes us to splendid gardens known only from ancient illustrations and descriptions, and to others still providing beautiful sights to those who visit them. In the best tradition of Rex artistic design, watch for a parade filled with colorful flowers, historic figures, and colorful costumes.
As in past years, teachers and students will find information and materials in the Rex website Education Area. The “Rex in the Classroom" program encourages teachers and students to use the Rex theme for a range of classroom activities. This year's theme is rich in art, history, mythology and design.