Zandsculpturen Garderen

In 2026, the sand sculpture exhibition at De Beeldentuin will be dedicated to the Roman Empire. In Garderen, we bring this impressive history to life with sand. Stroll past imposing sculptures depicting emperors, legionaries, gods, myths, and power. From the rise of Rome to the decline of the empire – each sculpture tells its own story. A special journey through the Roman era, for young and old.

An empire full of stories, imagined in sand

In 2026, Zandsculpturen Garderen will be dedicated to the Roman Empire. Rome once began as a small settlement on the River Tiber, but in the centuries that followed, it grew into one of the most powerful empires in history. From emperors and legionaries to roads, temples, bathhouses, and amphitheaters: the influence of the Romans is visible in Europe to this day.

At Zandsculpturen Garderen, we bring this impressive history to life. With dozens of sand sculptures, we tell the story of the Roman Empire: from the origins of Rome to the rise, flourishing, and eventual decline of the empire. This exhibition shows how ambition, power, technology, faith, and daily life combined to form a civilization that still captures the imagination.

The Roman Empire as a source of inspiration

The exhibition is structured around important stories, figures, and themes from Roman history. From Romulus and Remus, Roman gods, and mythological tales to powerful emperors, battles, triumphal processions, and the lives of ordinary citizens. The impressive architecture of the Romans also plays a major role: aqueducts, temples, roads, villas, and arenas demonstrate how ingenious and progressive this empire was.

Our sand artists from home and abroad have set to work on these themes. Their sculptures bring historical events, Roman legends, and recognizable icons to life, all rendered in sand down to the smallest detail.

Recognition for every generation

The exhibition is curated so that visitors of all ages recognize or discover something. Older visitors might recognize stories from history books, classic films, or trips to Italy. Younger visitors are transported into a world full of chariots, gladiators, soldiers, gods, and emperors. In this way, the history of the Roman Empire is told in an accessible and visual manner.

Children can marvel at the enormous figures, tough legionaries, and exciting scenes, while adults gain an eye for the deeper stories behind the images. For behind the splendor of Rome lies a history of power, struggle, renewal, and decay.

An experience full of details

The sculptures are not only large and impressive, but they are also full of details and symbolism. Look closely and you will discover small references: a laurel wreath, a Roman coin, an inscription in stone, an eagle on a stand, or traces of daily life in a busy Roman street. Each sculpture invites you to look longer and discover something new every time.

Via QR codes next to the sculptures, visitors can view additional background information and videos. In these, we share more about the stories behind the sculptures, the creation process, and the artists’ choices. In this way, the exhibition acquires not only an educational character but also an extra layer for anyone who wants to learn more about the world of the Romans.

More than just sculptures

The exhibition is part of a complete day out on the grounds of De Beeldentuin in Garderen. In addition to the impressive sand sculptures, you will stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens and artistic decorations. There is time for relaxation in Lunchroom De Rozentuin, where you can enjoy lunch, High Tea, or a treat with your coffee.

The combination of art, history, hospitality, and nature makes this exhibition unique. Whether you are interested in the Roman era, appreciate impressive craftsmanship, or are simply looking for a special day out: everything comes together in Garderen.

A kingdom in motion

What makes the Roman Empire so fascinating is that it was constantly in motion. It grew, changed, conquered, built, and united. But it also knew tensions, limits, and ultimately decline. It is precisely this combination that makes the story of Rome so human and relatable. It is about power and ambition, but also about ordinary people who lived, worked, built, believed, and dreamed within a global empire.

Sand is pre-eminently a material for telling this story. It is strong enough to support monumental forms, yet also fragile and temporary. Just like the Roman Empire itself: grand in its legacy, but ultimately ephemeral.

Welcome to sand. Welcome to Rome.

We invite you to come look, learn, discover, and enjoy. Visit Garderen and experience how the Roman Empire comes to life in sand. Whether you come with family, friends, a club, or a school: this exhibition offers something for everyone.

Let yourself be carried away by the stories, the details, the craftsmanship, and the atmosphere. From the first myths of Rome to the last traces of the empire: in Garderen, you walk right through Roman history.