Julian's Bower

Julian's Bower near Alkborough, in North Lincolnshire is a maze (English turf -cut maze or labyrinth - miz ). The maze above the confluence of the rivers Trent and Ouse to have been created in the 13th century by monks from a nearby monastery.

The first mention of it in the 17th century by " Abraham de la Pryme " ( 1671-1894 ), who described it as " Gillian's Bore". It was used at that time for village games and sports.

The legend tells of a river spirit Gur, which threatened the Christian visitors to destroy the labyrinth. He created a strong Tidenwelle in the River Trent. However, it was not strong enough and Julian Bower survived. Gur sends each spring by a new tidal wave of Alkborough, which is called the Trent Bore or Trent Aegir today.

The early Christian Church used the idea of the labyrinth as a symbol of the way to heaven. In the porch of the Church of Alkborough is a copy of the maze. More are in the east window and a stone cross in the cemetery.