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Itchen Stoke church asks public for help decoding hidden tiled labyrinth
Overview
St Mary's church in Itchen Stoke, Hampshire, is seeking public help to decipher the meaning behind a hidden tiled labyrinth discovered on its floor. Managed by The Churches Conservation Trust, the 16.5 ft labyrinth features 1,500 glazed tiles and 11 circuits. Sunlight shining through the stained-glass windows creates a kaleidoscope pattern and an arrow of light pointing to the centre, sparking theories that it could function as a calendar.
Key points
- A hidden labyrinth has been uncovered on the floor of St Mary's church in Itchen Stoke, Hampshire.
- The Churches Conservation Trust is asking the public to help research and decipher its meaning.
- Sunlight creates a kaleidoscope effect and an arrow of light pointing to the centre, leading to speculation that it may be a calendar.
- The labyrinth features 11 circuits, 1,500 glazed tiles, and is believed to be based on the one at Chartres Cathedral in France.
- Visitors and prayer groups currently use the labyrinth for contemplation and pilgrimage.