This unique seven circuit Labyrinth was installed in Ballinclea Park by BHRA in October 2003. This unusual piece of landscape art compliments our floral Millennium logo which features every spring.
Furthermore the location for our labyrinth is appropriate as it is
almost overlooked by the statue of Daedalus (its creator in legend) which is
located a few hundred metres away, inside the gate to Killiney Hill.
Since its origin in Minoan mythology 4,500 years ago this geometric design has been adapted by the Romans Celts and Christians, resulting in many and varied Labyrinths being constructed. It has come to symbolize life’s journey.
Further information is available:
- Information about the design of the labyrinth is available at Mid-Atlantic Geomancy. This site includes a facinating article "Using the Labyrinth: Chakras, Colors and Music"
- Daedalus
An article from Encyclopedia Mythica, an encyclopedia on mythology, folklore, legends, and more.
- The Myth of Daedalus & Icarus
An article from the online guide to the Island of Ikaria.
Design
The most prevalent design is the seven circuit pattern (there are also 3,
11, &15 circuit designs).
At the core of our design is a cross of approximately 10ft which we have
coloured purple. The remainder of the design is achieved by drawing circles
from and to various points on the cross.
Alignment
Our labyrinth is set out on a East - West axis so that you enter from
the west facing eastwards (the rising sun, Jerusalem).
This is the alignment of most churches. As you stand at the entrance
North is to your left & South is to your right.
The Labyrinth Project
We
commenced work on the 14th of August 2003. The pattern was marked
out by Eamon Duignan and John Hardiman over 2 days from Marcus Donnelly’s
drawing.
Over a two-month period the park was dug out by twenty-three residents (listed below), and was
completed on the 18th & 20th October 2003 by “JUST IN
TIME CONCRETE” who poured 7m3 of concrete.
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Fintan Butler
Bobby Byrne
Conor Casey
Gerard Casey
Ken Collins
Hugh Comerford
Shane Connelly
Tom Coogan
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Eamon Duignan
John Hanahoe
John Hardiman
Niall Hardiman
Brendan Harvey Graham
Jimmy Henehan
Mark Horgan-Gaul
Scott Jungmann
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Niall Kelly
Jim Mongan
Niall O’Connor
Michael O’Neill
Tony Seary
Michael Tierney
Mr Tung
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The colour scheme was selected by Niall Kelly, Michael O’Neill, and John Hardiman.
The cost was circa €2,500. We received a community art grant of €800 towards the costs from DLRCoCo.
BHRA wish to thank all of those who worked so hard on
this project and also the very helpful contribution of young people.
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