Located in Fontanellato, a few kilometers from Parma, the Masone Labyrinth, the largest in the world, is one of the most fascinating contemporary architectural works in Italy. Created by the publisher, bibliophile, designer and collector Franco Maria Ricci, is not only a place of leisure, but also an important cultural attraction that combines art, nature and literature. It winds along three kilometer routes, created using around 300 thousand bamboo plants, belonging to different species, between 3 and 15 meters high.
History and concept
Inaugurated in 2015, the Masone Labyrinth extends over an area of over 8 hectares. The choice to use bamboo is not random. In fact, it is a symbol of growth, resistance and beauty. The labyrinth is conceived as an immersive experience, where visitors can get lost and find themselves on a journey full of surprises and discoveries.
The project was born from Ricci's love for labyrinths and visual culture. This place is not only a tourist attraction, but also a tribute to literature, especially the world of Borges and his famous “Labyrinth of Babel”. Each section is designed to stimulate visitors' curiosity and imagination, offering hidden corners and unexpected views.
Sensory journey
The labyrinth is made up of paths that create a magical and contemplative atmosphere. Visitors can explore the avenues, admire art installations and enjoy the sounds of nature around them. The architecture of the labyrinth is designed to test the ability to orient oneself and to invite deep, personal reflection. The path that moves towards the center is typical of classical labyrinths, of which the seven-spiral Cretan one is the best-known example, while the square plan of the walkable area refers to Roman labyrinths.
The perimeter is star-shaped. The buildings of the Masone Labyrinth were designed by Pier Carlo Bontempi, architect from Parma. Bontempi conceived the architecture of the complex keeping in mind the utopias of the great architects of the French Revolution period: Boullée, Ledoux, Lequeu and the Italian Antolini. Inside the structure there is a museum which houses a collection of over 500 works of art ranging from ancient to contemporary. This selection includes works by artists such as Alberto Burri and Giotto, creating a dialogue between different eras and creative forms.
Activities and events
The Masone Labyrinth is a dynamic place, which regularly hosts cultural events, exhibitions, concerts and educational workshops. Thanks to its versatility, it is possible to enjoy different experiences: from guided tours that tell the story of the labyrinth and the peculiarities of bamboo, to special events that attract artists and thinkers from all over the world. Another fascinating aspect of the labyrinth is its gastronomic offer. The internal restaurant offers dishes that celebrate local culinary traditions, with fresh, high-quality ingredients, allowing visitors to conclude their experience in a delicious way.
Symbol of creativity
The Masone Labyrinth is a symbol of creativity and innovation, a place that invites reflection and exploration. If you are in Parma, don't miss the opportunity to visit this extraordinary project that combines art, architecture and nature in a single, evocative experience. A journey into this labyrinth is an invitation to get lost in order to find yourself, to discover new horizons and enjoy the beauty of the present.
(Photo: Masone Labyrinth, Facebook Page)
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