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Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina was a renowned Italian composer of the Renaissance period, particularly known for his sacred choral music. "Jesu! Rex admirabilis" is one of his well-known compositions. Here are some interesting facts about Palestrina and this specific piece:

1. Life and Background: Palestrina (1525-1594) lived during the Renaissance era in Italy. He was an influential composer, especially in the realm of sacred music.

2. Jesu! Rex admirabilis: This motet, which translates to "Jesus! Admirable King," is a prime example of Palestrina's style. It's a beautiful choral composition that reflects the religious fervor of the time.

3. Counterpoint Mastery: Palestrina was a master of counterpoint, a musical technique involving the combination of different melodic lines. His compositions are often studied for their intricate counterpoint, which was considered a hallmark of Renaissance music.

4. Council of Trent: Palestrina's works played a significant role in the Council of Trent (1545-1563), a series of meetings within the Catholic Church addressing various issues, including the role of music in worship. Legend has it that after hearing Palestrina's compositions, the council decided that polyphonic music (music with multiple independent melody lines) could continue to be a part of the church service, provided the text was still intelligible. This decision likely saved Palestrina's style of composition from being banned.

5. Legacy: Palestrina's influence extended far beyond his lifetime. He is often credited with saving polyphonic church music from being replaced by simpler, homophonic styles. His compositions continue to be performed and studied today, making him one of the most enduring figures in the history of Western classical music.

"Jesu! Rex admirabilis" remains a testament to Palestrina's musical genius and his contribution to the rich tapestry of sacred choral music.