Have you ever walked in a maze?

And when you imagine it, what comes to mind?
For those who grew up in the 60s and 70s, their thoughts immediately run to cult films from the 80s like The Shining, with its disturbing snowy garden, or Labyrinth, a dreamlike fairy tale between magic and mystery.
But for many others, the labyrinth recalls elegant and fascinating historic gardens, where these green paths represent authentic natural architecture.

The book

Ettore Selli’s book dedicated to labyrinths is not only a journey through almost one hundred examples scattered around Italy – public or private, free or paid – but also a true inner exploration. Reading it means asking yourself surprising questions, which we rarely ask ourselves:
Do I like labyrinths? What do I feel when I go through them: anxiety or curiosity, confusion or excitement?
And again: How do I make decisions about the path? What do I feel when I find (or don’t find) the exit?

The author

Selli doesn’t just talk about labyrinths: he lives them, studies them, builds them. He is one of those rare enthusiasts who has moved from personal curiosity to practice, collaborating with agricultural companies to create fascinating temporary mazes of corn or sunflower, which can be visited in the summer. These “ephemeral” labyrinths are a perfect example of sustainable design: born from crops already planned, they do not require irrigation out of season and combine play, nature and environmental awareness.

But why does the concept of the labyrinth fascinate us so much?

Perhaps because it perfectly represents our mind, with its intricate paths, decisions to be made, dead ends and surprising ways out. It is no coincidence that in the history of art and literature the labyrinth has always been a symbol of introspection and transformation.

The structure of the book

The book also offers us an introduction to the history of labyrinths, their architecture and their role in ancient gardens. But above all it invites us to get involved: with maps, detailed descriptions and – in some cases – even with small puzzles to solve to find the most mysterious labyrinths.
A real adventure trip, perfect to share with your children or to live as a personal experience, to discover Italy through a completely new lens.

To buy it

Do you want to discover the hidden labyrinths of Italy and start a fascinating journey between nature and introspection?
Buy the book by Ettore Selli Labirinti Italiani (only in italian language) and start your exploration between greenery, culture and mystery.
Whether with friends, family or alone, each labyrinth will lead you closer to yourself.