Hedge mazes were a common phenomenon in Denmark during the 17th and 18th centuries.
They were primarily found in castle and manor house gardens, as was the case throughout the rest of Europe.
Of these historic gardens, only one remains in Denmark today—at Egeskov Castle on eastern Funen. However, in recent years, several new hedge mazes have been established.
Egeskov Castle is the location in Denmark with the highest number of hedge mazes today. The park contains four hedge mazes: one made of hornbeam (the oldest) and three newer ones made of bamboo, yew, and larch.
The oldest maze is located in the northeastern part of the garden. It is traditionally dated to 1733, though there is some debate about whether this dating is accurate—it may be significantly older. According to some sources, the famous English maze at Hampton Court Park, commonly dated to 1690, is believed to have been copied from Egeskov’s.
When comparing the layouts of the two mazes, they are nearly identical. Egeskov’s design is rectangular, while Hampton Court’s shape is dictated by the strict layout of the park.
One possible reason for this similarity is that Prince George of Denmark (1653–1708), son of King Frederick III, visited Egeskov, experienced the maze, became fascinated by it, and took the design back to England. Prince George was married to Queen Anne, who is said to have commissioned the Hampton Court Maze, supposedly created shortly after Egeskov’s.
Many hedge mazes can be found abroad, especially in Great Britain, which is often considered the "homeland of mazes." There are 43 hedge mazes in the UK, including many modern ones. (For a complete listing, see The British Maze Guide by Adrian Fisher and Jeff Saward, 1991).
In Ireland, there are three hedge mazes.
In the Netherlands, there are 13 hedge mazes.
In Germany, 10 hedge mazes have been recorded, with the most famous likely being the Herrenhausen Maze in Hanover.
Photo and layout by Jørgen Thordrup.
Left: Layout of Egeskov Castle’s Maze
Right: Layout of Hampton Court’s Maze
Gl. Ryvej 2, Rodelund
DK-8653 Them
Gl. Ryvej 2, Rodelund
DK-8653 Them
At Labyrinthia, you can choose to buy food in the café and eat it indoors or outside on the south-facing terrace.
You can also bring your own food and eat it outside.
We also have two large gas grills, so you can grill your own food if you wish.
NB: There is a free “doggy bar” (fresh water) for our thirsty four-legged guests.
In the café, we offer a delicious selection of food and drinks. Enjoy freshly made sandwiches, hot dogs, fish and chips, barista coffee, slush ice, ice cream, and much more.
Create the ideal setting for your next school event, activity, or gathering with our cozy tent – perfect for outdoor teaching, teacher days, field trips, and more.
The tent accommodates up to 64 people, and you can rent the entire tent for 500 DKK or just half of it (max. 32 people) for 250 DKK, if the tent is shared with another event.
Contact us to learn more about how our tent can be used for your school or institution! Most things can be arranged.
Call us at 86 84 99 44 or send an email to labyrinthia@labyrinthia.dk
In the Puzzle Center, you will find logic games, puzzles, and educational games in various difficulty levels. The old stable building has been converted into a cozy showroom or "Puzzle Center," as we also call it.
With over 50 different tasks and games, there is something for the whole family – from beginners to experienced players. Set aside plenty of time, as it can be hard to tear yourself away from the many exciting challenges once you're started!
