San Giorgio Maggiore Island: Borges Labyrinth

A literary maze

On San Giorgio Maggiore Island, a kilometre-long hedge labyrinth takes its inspiration from Jorge Luis Borges' short story "The Garden of Forking Paths". The Argentine writer, who visited Venice and its literary connections throughout his life, wrote about labyrinths as metaphors for infinite possibility. This physical maze turns that literary concept into something you walk through, feel lost in, and eventually solve.

The labyrinth

The hedges are tall enough to prevent shortcuts and dense enough to create genuine disorientation. The path forks repeatedly, presenting choices that lead either deeper into the maze or toward the exit. Allow 30 to 45 minutes for the full walk. The experience is meditative rather than stressful: there is no time limit, and the island setting is peaceful. Children and adults find it equally engaging.

Nuova Manica Lunga

Your ticket also includes access to the Nuova Manica Lunga, a contemporary gallery space on the island. Exhibitions change regularly, providing a cultural complement to the outdoor labyrinth experience. The combination of literature-inspired landscape and contemporary art makes the visit intellectually rewarding beyond the simple pleasure of navigating a maze.

The island

San Giorgio Maggiore is a short vaporetto ride from St Mark's Square but feels entirely separate from the crowds. Palladio's church, the monastery gardens, and the lagoon views all contribute to an atmosphere of calm that most of Venice has lost. The labyrinth fits naturally into this contemplative environment.

Book your Borges Labyrinth tickets

Get lost on purpose. Book your labyrinth entry tickets today.