Borges Labyrinth: A Literary Maze in San Rafael

Nestled in the Cuadro Bombal district of San Rafael, Mendoza, the Borges Labyrinth stands as a remarkable homage to the celebrated Argentine author Jorge Luis Borges. This intricate hedge maze, located on the Bombal family's estate, Finca Los Alamos, was conceived by English diplomat and maze designer Randoll Coate as a tribute to Borges's work and his friendship with Susana Bombal.The labyrinth itself is a sprawling 8,700 square meters (approximately 66,000 square feet), featuring over 12,000 box hedges. When viewed from above, the maze is ingeniously designed in the shape of an open book, with the hedges spelling out "Borges" both forwards and in a mirror image. This design encapsulates Borges's fascination with labyrinths, mirrors, and the concept of infinity, reflecting the complex themes prevalent in his literary works.Borges's connection to the Finca Los Alamos dates back to the 1930s when Susana Bombal, a writer and friend of Borges, inherited the estate. The estate became a gathering place for intellectuals, fostering a close bond between Borges and Bombal. After Bombal's death, her nephew, Camilo Aldao, discovered letters detailing Coate's vision for a labyrinth as a monument to Borges. Aldao then commissioned Coate to bring the design to life, and the Borges Labyrinth was inaugurated in 2003.Visitors to the Borges Labyrinth can immerse themselves in a challenging and symbolic journey. The winding paths and dead ends mirror the complexities of life and the philosophical themes explored in Borges's stories. An observation tower provides a vantage point to appreciate the full scope of the maze's design. The site also includes a pulpería and bistro serving traditional Argentine cuisine, a play area, and a museum with audio guides to enhance the visitor experience.