The entire maze was built using exclusively bamboo plants, ranging from dwarf varieties to giant species reaching 15 meters in height.
The labyrinth's design was inspired by Roman-style labyrinths and the star-shaped fortress city of Palmanova.
Franco Maria Ricci decided to build the labyrinth after a suggestion from his friend and author Jorge Luis Borges, who was fascinated by the concept of mazes.
The central courtyard of the labyrinth spans 2,000 square meters and is designed to host performances and concerts.
The art collection includes a notable series of busts and a significant collection of works by the painter Antonio Ligabue.
The site operates as a private foundation dedicated to the preservation of art and bibliographic heritage.
The Labirinto della Masone is the world's largest labyrinth, created by publisher and designer Franco Maria Ricci in Fontanellato. The site spans eight hectares and contains approximately 200,000 bamboo plants of twenty different species. The complex features a central piazza surrounded by galleries housing Ricci's private art collection of over 500 works dating from the 16th to the 20th century. Architectural structures within the complex are constructed in the style of neoclassical Italian manor houses. The maze itself is laid out in an eight-pointed star pattern. In addition to the museum and garden, the grounds include a library dedicated to typography and graphic design, as well as a bookstore. The complex functions as a cultural hub hosting temporary exhibitions and events. It is situated on the former estate of the Masone farmstead.
The elevated viewing tower overlooking the central star-shaped courtyard provides the best overhead perspective of the geometry.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes as the labyrinth paths are gravel and can be uneven.
Allow ample time to view the private art collection inside the main building, as it is separate from the maze walk.
Check the official website for temporary exhibition schedules before visiting, as these change frequently throughout the year.
Do not attempt to navigate the maze without water in the summer, as there is limited shade once inside the tall bamboo sections.
Closed on Tuesdays. Generally open year-round, but specific exhibition spaces may undergo short-term rotations.
Maintain silence within the gallery spaces and do not pick or damage the bamboo shoots in the maze.
