So why a labyrinth on the farm? Labyrinths are about journeys and young people are on a journey. I’ll explore some of the roots of labyrinths and ways in which we can involve young people in the design and build.
Origins of Labyrinths
Labyrinths are ancient, with evidence of their existence dating back over 4,000 years. The most famous labyrinth is part of a Greek myth, the labyrinth of Crete, designed by Daedalus. However, labyrinth designs have been found in various cultures worldwide, including rock carvings, pottery, and other forms.
It’s important to distinguish between “labyrinths” and “mazes.” Labyrinths have a single, unicursal path leading to the centre, while mazes have multiple paths and dead ends. Early labyrinths were often simple, while later designs, like those found in Roman mosaics and medieval cathedrals, became more complex.
Medieval labyrinths, particularly those in cathedrals like Chartres, became symbolic of a spiritual journey or pilgrimage. Walking the labyrinth was seen as a form of meditation and reflection, a symbolic journey to the centre, representing God. So there is a very strong Christian historical connection.
Labyrinths in a Farm Garden
In the farm we want to keep things natural. We will be building with pallet wood to create fencing and to lead us on the path to the centre but we will try to include stone and brick to create interest…. And maybe mounded earth. We will want to incorporate herbs and flowers along the journey and have already started to plant raspberries down the path. Ideally we will incorporate different textures, scents and sounds into the labyrinths design. The initial build will be to create the path and afterwards we will spend time adding lots of ideas!
Involving Young People
Part of the fun of building the labyrinth will be to share myths and stories associated with our labyrinth. We will give it a romantic and exciting history. Sparking the imagination of the young people is important.
The young people love games so building in scavenger hunts, mindfulness walks and trust games where we guide someone through the labyrinth blindfolded!
We can encourage the young people to incorporate their own designs, decorations and messages.
By combining the historical significance of labyrinths with creative, hands-on activities, I hope we will create a meaningful and engaging experience for young people in the orchard.
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