Mysterious medieval maze restored

Conservationists have described how they have restored a rare medieval earth and grass maze in north Lincolnshire, but said they are no closer to solving the mystery of why and when it was made.

Julian's Bower is cut into the landscape at Alkborough and is a twisting and turning labyrinth of interlocking rings measuring 44ft across.

English Heritage unveiled the reopened monument after a major returfing operation.

Experts say the origins of the maze are shrouded in mystery but may combine elements of Greek myth, medieval penitence and innocent fun and games.

Some have noted how Alkborough's maze is strikingly similar to a floor design in the 13th-century French cathedral of Chartres.

There pilgrims followed the circular route, sometimes on their knees, as an act of penitence, piety or meditation, with the centre of the maze being known as Jerusalem.

Strong claims have been made for a similar ecclesiastical origin and purpose for Julian's Bower.

The relic has always been popular with visitors but the number of people walking over it left it eroded. For the past three months it has been closed to the public as the restoration project proceeded.

The work was overseen by the local Maze Community, which has worked with English Heritage and North Lincolnshire Council to re-surface the monument using funding from the South Humber Bank Wildlife and People Project as well as the Heritage Lottery Fund and Yorkshire Forward.

Keith Miller, English Heritage inspector of ancient monuments, said: "Julian's Bower is a name which was given to turf mazes in several different parts of England. The Alkborough relic is incredibly puzzling and its survival is nothing short of miraculous."

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