Thanks. They’re pagan in origin, some of the hillforts which were not actually forts were cut with a maze pattern for the ascent. Like other things, they were kept around as good public relations as Europe was converted. My Christian Reformed 2nd grade teacher had her students put on a Maypole each year.
I can also remember going around a maypole in grade school. (I got tangled up in crepe paper as I danced around.)
A link to another article on Scandinavian rock mazes. The purpose seems to be a bit better known than the ones in Russia.
http://freya.theladyofthelabyrinth.com/?page_id=356
The ritual hero enters the maze and rescues the lady. I suppose this is a test and lesson to young men and women.
As always the hard part comes in the 50 years of living after she wins him!