Labirinto della Masone
Emilia-Romagna
Labirinto della Masone, located near Fontanellato in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, is a vast cultural park centered around the largest bamboo labyrinth in the world. Conceived by Franco Maria Ricci, inspired by his friendship with Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges, the labyrinth spans approximately seven to eight hectares and features a star-shaped design with eight points, reminiscent of Renaissance ideal cities. The maze is crafted entirely from various species of bamboo, showcasing Ricci's passion for this resilient and fast-growing plant. Beyond the labyrinth, the park houses a museum displaying Ricci's eclectic art collection and his typeface archives, especially those related to Giambattista Bodoni, along with a gallery dedicated to Maria Ricci's graphic design work. The site also includes spaces for temporary exhibitions, conferences, concerts, a restaurant, and a café, making it a vibrant cultural hub. Architect Pier Carlo Bontempi designed the accompanying buildings, complementing the labyrinth's esoteric and historical inspirations. Although it lost its title as the world's largest maze in 2018, it remains the largest bamboo maze globally and a significant tourist attraction in the Duchy of Parma's castle association.
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Tip: The best time to visit Labirinto della Masone is during the warmer months when the bamboo is lush and vibrant. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays, to avoid long waits. The park offers discounts for groups, seniors, and children. Take advantage of guided tours to fully appreciate the labyrinth's design and the art collections. Don't miss the on-site restaurant and café to experience local gastronomy. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to the maze's extensive paths.
Interesting facts
- •Labirinto della Masone was once the largest maze in the world until 2018, when it was surpassed by the Yancheng Dafeng Dream Maze in China.
- •It remains the largest bamboo labyrinth globally, featuring about twenty different bamboo species.
- •The labyrinth's design is inspired by Roman mosaic labyrinths and Renaissance ideal city layouts, with an eight-pointed star perimeter.
- •Franco Maria Ricci planted over 200,000 bamboo plants in the park, reflecting his lifelong passion for bamboo.
- •The labyrinth includes a central pyramidal 'temple' evoking esoteric symbolism.
History
The idea for Labirinto della Masone originated in the 1980s from Franco Maria Ricci, who was fascinated by labyrinths since childhood and inspired by his collaboration and friendship with Jorge Luis Borges.
The concept took shape in the early 2000s with architect Davide Dutto, who helped design the labyrinth inspired by Roman mosaic labyrinths and Renaissance ideal city plans.
Construction began with planting bamboo in 2005, followed by building works starting in 2010 under architect Pier Carlo Bontempi.
The cultural park officially opened in May 2015 and has since become a landmark blending art, architecture, and nature.
Place Guide
The Bamboo Labyrinth2015
An enormous maze covering about seven hectares, composed entirely of various species of bamboo arranged in an eight-pointed star pattern with orthogonal lines, dead ends, and bifurcations inspired by Roman labyrinth designs. The labyrinth is a sensory and contemplative experience reflecting Ricci's fascination with labyrinths and Borges' literary influence.
Art Museum and Typeface Archive2015
A museum housing Franco Maria Ricci's eclectic art collection and a significant archive of typefaces, especially those related to Giambattista Bodoni, showcasing the artistic and cultural heritage connected to the park's founder.
Cultural and Event Spaces2015
Facilities within the park include temporary exhibition halls, conference rooms, concert venues, a restaurant, and a café that host diverse cultural events and gastronomic experiences, making the park a lively cultural hub.
Contact
Phone: 0521 827081
