Labyrinth Mazes Views
Although early Cretan coins occasionally exhibit multicursal patterns,[3] the unicursal seven-course Classical design became associated with the Labyrinth on coins as early as 430 BC,[4] and became widely used to represent the Labyrinth – even though both logic and literary descriptions make it clear that the Minotaur was trapped in a complex branching maze.[5] Even as the designs became more elaborate, visual depictions of the Labyrinth from Roman times until the Renaissance are almost invariably unicursal. Branching mazes were reintroduced only when garden mazes became popular in the Renaissance.
The Grace Cathedral labyrinths in San Francisco, CA show the varied forms that mazes and labyrinths can take. Rather than taking organic forms in plants or trees, these architecturally designed stone and tile labyrinths t– both an indoor and outdoor labyrinth are located at the cathedral t– offer an inspiring chance for spiritual contemplation in the midst of the bustling city.
Mazes and labyrinths are more part and parcel of our culture than people realise. Their roots can be traced back to Greek mythology and Paganism, where they were regarded as mystical. It wasn’t until a few hundred years ago that mazes were designed for fun (sadists), and often became a perfect meeting place for secret lovers and cunning planners. Over time they have become associated with entrapment and enclosure as our imaginations run wild.
4. Ever wanted to get locked in an enchanted castle and wait for your Prince Charming to come? Well, now’s your chance. The castle is one of the 2008 mazes on Richardson Farm, but it closes at the end of October so you only have a few days for your knight in shining armour to whisk you away to pastures new. A labyrinth, like this castle, has one way in and one way out so you have to follow a certain route to escape. Mazes can have multiple entrances and exits with lots of dead ends, so can be much more confusing. Photo: Richardson Farm
Labyrinth Mazes Images
