Labyrinths are fascinating and mysterious places where one can embark on an adventure through winding paths and green hedges. In Italy, there are many labyrinths to visit, some ancient and others modern, some easy and others challenging, some famous and others hidden.
Here are some examples of labyrinths you can find in Italy:
Borges Labyrinth, San Giorgio Island (Venice).
This labyrinth is dedicated to the Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges, who loved Venice and its symbols. The labyrinth consists of over 3000 boxwood plants and has a unique shape: when viewed from above, you can read words and symbols related to Borges’ work. The labyrinth is located in the garden of the ancient convent on the island, where you can also visit the basilica and the bell tower.
Masone Labyrinth, Fontanellato (Parma).
This is the world’s largest bamboo labyrinth, covering 7 hectares with a length of 3 km. The labyrinth was created by the writer and publisher Franco Maria Ricci, who wanted to realize his dream of building a labyrinth as described in books. The labyrinth is surrounded by a park with exotic plants, statues, and fountains. Inside the labyrinth, you will also find a museum with artworks and rare books.
Donnafugata Castle Labyrinth, Ragusa.
This labyrinth is located in the park of Donnafugata Castle, a historical residence from the 19th century. The labyrinth is made of pittosporum hedges and has a rectangular shape with four entrances. In the center of the labyrinth, there is a small tower with a spiral staircase that offers a panoramic view of the park and the castle.
Villa Pisani Labyrinth, Stra (Venice).
This is one of Italy’s oldest and most famous labyrinths, dating back to the 18th century. The labyrinth consists of nine concentric circles of boxwood hedges, with a path full of twists and turns. In the center of the labyrinth, there is a statue of Minerva, the goddess of wisdom, rewarding those who reach it. The labyrinth is part of the Italian garden of the villa, one of the most beautiful Venetian residences. Villa Pisani’s labyrinth is one of Italy’s oldest and is currently closed to the public for restoration.
Villa Barbarigo Labyrinth, Valsanzibio (Padua).
This labyrinth is one of the largest in Italy, covering an area of 2 hectares with a length of 1.5 km. The labyrinth is made up of ancient boxwood hedges and has an irregular shape with acute angles. The labyrinth represents the mystical path of man towards spiritual perfection. It is part of the baroque garden of the villa, rich in fountains, statues, and allegorical symbols.
Villa Giusti Labyrinth, Verona.
This labyrinth was created in the late 15th century and is one of the oldest in Europe. It is made of boxwood hedges with a very intricate path. In the center, there is a tower with a belvedere terrace.
Villa Lante Labyrinth, Viterbo.
This labyrinth was created in the 16th century and is made of boxwood and laurel hedges. It has a square shape with four entrances, and in the center, there is a fountain with a statue of Diana, the goddess of the hunt.
With this small selection of labyrinths, you are now ready to get lost with elegance in the Beautiful Country. Enjoy!”
