Labirinto della Masone: Italy’s Bamboo Maze Near Parma

Nestled in the rolling countryside of northern Italy, the Labirinto della Masone stands as a testament to human ingenuity and nature’s beauty. Spanning about 8 hectares, this colossal bamboo maze once held the title of the world’s largest, drawing adventurers and culture enthusiasts alike to Fontanellato, just outside Parma.

The Vision Behind the Maze

The creation of Italian publisher, art collector, and bibliophile Franco Maria Ricci (1937–2020), the labyrinth originated from a conversation with Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges in the 1970s or 1980s. Borges, fascinated by labyrinths as symbols of introspection and mystery, inspired Ricci to bring this idea to life. After selling his publishing house in 1998, Ricci invested in developing this unique site, which opened to the public in 2015.

Designed by landscape architect Davide Dutto, the maze draws from ancient Roman mosaics and Renaissance architecture, featuring straight corridors and right angles that challenge visitors’ sense of direction.

Navigating the Bamboo Labyrinth

• Size and Scale: Covers 8 hectares (about 20 acres) with over 200,000 bamboo plants from 20 species, some reaching 15 meters tall.
• Path Length: More than 3 kilometers of winding trails, ensuring plenty of exploration.
• Design Features: Geometric star shape with dead ends, maps at intervals for guidance, and no true ‘getting lost’ risk for long.
• Center Reward: A piazza with a golden pyramid housing a chapel, surrounded by art galleries.

Visitors often spend 30-60 minutes traversing, with children particularly thrilled by the immersive experience. Seasonal events, like Christmas gift hunts, add festive charm.

Cultural Treasures at the Heart

Beyond the maze, the complex is a cultural hub. It houses:

• A museum with over 500 artworks, including 16th-century paintings and modern sculptures from Ricci’s collection.
• A specialized library on typography, featuring rare books by Giambattista Bodoni and Ricci’s full publishing catalog.
• The Franco Maria Ricci Foundation, hosting exhibitions, events, and the publishing headquarters.
• Cafes, restaurants, and meeting spaces for a full-day visit.

Practical Visitor Information

Open daily except Tuesdays, January 1, and December 25. Tickets include maze and museum access; booking recommended, especially peak seasons. Located 20km west of Parma, easily reachable from Milan (1.5 hours).

• Best Time: Spring/summer for lush bamboo; avoid midday heat.
• Duration: 2-4 hours recommended.
• Accessibility: Paths are flat but involve walking; suitable for most ages.
• Cost: Entry fees support maintenance (check official site for current prices).

Why Visit Labirinto della Masone?

This attraction transcends a simple puzzle—it’s an artistic statement merging nature, history, and philosophy. Though it lost the ‘world’s largest maze’ title in 2018 to China’s Yancheng Dafeng Dream Maze, it remains the biggest bamboo labyrinth and a top Parma draw.

Travelers praise its fun, disorienting paths and stunning art, calling it family-friendly yet intellectually stimulating.

Exploring Parma and Surrounds

Fontanellato’s medieval castle enhances the visit. Parma offers Parmesan cheese, prosciutto, and opera heritage—pair with a food tour.

• Rocca Sanvitale: 12th-century fortress nearby.
• Parma Cathedral: Romanesque gem.
• Local Cuisine: Try culatello ham.

Labirinto della Masone FAQs

Plan Your Adventure

The Labirinto della Masone invites you to lose yourself—and find inspiration. Combine with Parma’s gastronomic delights for an unforgettable Italian escape.