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The Roman-inspired mosaics hidden down a spooky London alleyway you'd never know were there

Document Cited in Related
Vincent
Published date21 April 2024
Publication titleMyLondon (England)
One of the reasons it is so unknown is also one of the best things about it -there is a tiny alleyway on Shepherdess Walk between the terraced residential buildings with steps down beneath the houses. You could honestly blink and miss it as you walk by

Though for keen-eyed explorers there is a clue as to what is waiting on the other side of the row of houses. A little sign at the bottom of the steps in the alley simply reads "To the mosaics" with an arrow pointing down the dark alley. If you're brave enough and follow the sign you'll emerge into a courtyard with the stunning Romanesque artwork.

One of the massive panels depicts the four seasons and how contemporary locals enjoy each time of year in the area bordered by beautiful geometric patterns. A skateboarder, dog walker and runner decorate the spring. In summer it's swimming in the lido, picnics and ice cream. In autumn, kite flying among the red leaves. In winter it's feeding ducks, making wreathes and taking photos of the stark beauty of winter in London.

These mosaics were designed by Tessa Hunkin and completed over two years by a huge 150-strong volunteer team. They were finally finished in 2012 in celebration of the London Olympics that year and were funded by Hackney Council.

Though it's not just people that are represented here, plants and animals are important. There is a cat chasing a mouse seen on one panel, several types of local bird and native trees and flowers are also on show. The floor of the courtyard is taken up by various different...

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