Prelada House Labyrinth

Category: Nature > Garden

District: Porto > Porto > Porto > Prelada

Location

The Prelada House Labyrinth is located in the city of Porto, within the Prelada area. It is part of the gardens surrounding the Prelada House, a historic property in the western part of the city. It is specifically positioned in the northern portion of the gardens, at a lower level than the main house, contributing to the landscape diversity of this green space.

A Historic Creation

This boxwood labyrinth, notable for its size, is considered one of the largest examples in the Iberian Peninsula. Its conception dates back to the 18th century and is attributed to Nicolau Nasoni, the Italian architect who also designed the Prelada House and its surrounding gardens. It is, in fact, the only 18th-century labyrinth still existing in the city of Porto, which gives it particular historical and architectural value.

The Design and Discovery

Composed of dense, meticulously trimmed boxwood shrubs, the labyrinth offers a winding path experience. Its design invites exploration and discovery, creating a sense of immersion between the "fullness" of the vegetal walls and the "emptiness" of the paths. At the heart of the labyrinth, an imposing Norfolk Island Pine stands approximately thirty meters tall, marking the endpoint of the journey through its intricate design. Vestiges of an old aqueduct that once existed on the property can also be observed.

Atmosphere and Character

The Prelada labyrinth was not merely an ornamental element; it also served a playful function, a "game" that fit the aesthetic and atmosphere of the Baroque period. It was a space for entertainment where visitors challenged themselves to find the way to the center, perhaps under the amused gaze of those observing from the windows of the House. Its presence in the Prelada gardens enriches the visit, providing a moment of introspection or fun, evoking an ancient archetype that invites adventure and reflection on organization and apparent chaos.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt