Nestled in a little corner of Gabriel Richard Park, under the mainland stretch of the Belle Isle Bridge, is a curious pattern inside a circle of brick pavers. Only one entrance to the small patio greets visitors. Once inside, you can follow the pattern to the center. As you move along the path, intermittently turning towards the bridge, then the lush greenery of the park, and back again to the shimmering blue water, you may experience a quieting of your mind, a calming of your breath, and a relaxing of your body.
This is a labyrinth. Unlike a maze, you can’t get lost inside – there’s one way into the middle, which is the same way back out. These paths have existed throughout the world since prehistoric times; they are one of the earliest human-created designs. They have meant different things to different cultures over the millennia. Today, many people use them for meditation or as part of a spiritual practice. They appear all over Metro Detroit.
A tool called the Worldwide Labyrinth Locator contains thousands of entries with information including location, style, material, and accessibility. The database identifies 118 labyrinths in Michigan, two dozen of which can be found in and around Detroit.
Labyrinths are often located at public parks, hospitals, or churches. While some are private or only open during certain hours, many are accessible to anyone at any time. They come in a range of designs. Most common are the classical – the oldest known pattern – and the medieval – inspired by the 12th-century labyrinth at Chartres Cathedral in France. A wide variety of modern labyrinths exist as well.
There is no wrong way to experience a labyrinth, whether you move slowly or quickly, focus on a mantra or let your mind wander, linger at the center, or leave as soon as you arrive. Use it as meditation or prayer, to contemplate a problem, to give your mind a rest, or just move your body. Detroitisit identified several worth checking out whenever you find you need a little extra calm in your day, some centering, or some peace.
Adcraft Labyrinth, Gabriel Richard Park
DRF LABYRINTH, DETROIT. PHOTO STEFANIE CALOIA
On the Detroit Riverwalk next to MacArthur Bridge, this classical design – consisting of a path that loops from one side to the other until it reaches the center – opened to the public in 2005. The water views add an extra calming feeling as you make your way to the center and back.
Location: 7130 E Jefferson Avenue, Detroit
The Garden of Healing and Renewal
Step into this oasis and you will forget it is located across from the McLaren Hospital emergency entrance. The labyrinth sits among tree-lined walking trails which wind through gardens and past colorful sculptures. Lights enable quiet journeys after dark in addition to daylight hours. This classical design is wheelchair accessible.
Location: 5701 Bow Pointe Drive, Clarkston
Messiah Covenant Church
A lovely garden full of colorful flowers circles this medieval design, with its distinctive symmetrical quadrants inside the circle. The grassy path is lined with brick. It is located next to the church between Vinewood and West Grand Boulevard in Southwest Detroit.
Location: 3816 Toledo Street, Detroit
Angela Hospice
ANGELA LABYRINTH. PHOTO STEFANIE CALOIA
Among the many features of the Angela Hospice grounds is a Santa Rosa labyrinth – a modern take on the medieval design. Visitors will find it behind the main building near a butterfly garden. This gorgeous construction is a gravel path lined with large stones. A wind chime hanging from a young oak tree adds to the ambiance. You might even spot deer grazing in the nearby meadow.
Location: 14100 Newburgh Road, Livonia
St Michael’s Episcopal Church
Also called “Jane’s Walk,” this labyrinth honors Jane Engelbrecht Bashara, who was a member of the church. The website states “Everyone is welcome. We hope Jane’s Walk will inspire peace, love, and giving in the community.” It is located on the front lawn of the church. Nearby benches offer a chance for more restful contemplation – a feature found in many labyrinths.
Location: 20475 Sunningdale Park, Grosse Pointe Woods
Van Elslander Cancer Center, Ascension St. John Hospital
This Santa Rosa labyrinth is a bit hidden compared to others, but a short path on the north side of the Elslander Center will get you there. Alternately, enter the main doors and turn left where you will find the small garden and patio beyond a set of doors. Trees and a vine-covered brick wall surrounding the labyrinth provide a lovely respite from the busy hospital grounds.
Location: 19229 Mack Ave #28, Grosse Pointe Woods
Nativity Episcopal Church
The shady front lawn of Nativity contains this large medieval labyrinth. Its unique construction includes irregular shaped stones lined by brick. A helpful document provides suggestions on how to use the labyrinth, which is always open and wheelchair accessible.
Location: 21220 West 14 Mile Road, Bloomfield Township
Northminster Presbyterian Church
Northminster is home to the Troy Community Interfaith Group’s labyrinth. Brick pavers make up its medieval pattern. The Northminster website offers a suggested way to use the labyrinth for those who need extra guidance.
Location: 3633 West Big Beaver Road, Troy
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