Labyrinth Garden

The Labyrinth Garden at the Wilbur D. May Arboretum, within Rancho San Rafael Park, was initiated by the Attorney General's Office, and is dedicated to victims of violent crime in our community and their loved ones. Phase I construction of the Labyrinth Garden was made possible by these donors: Nevada Bell, IGT, the E.L. Cord Foundation, and the District Attorney's Office.

Pinyon Design was retained by Rancho San Rafael, to create an entrance sign to the garden.

Labyrinths have been used for centuries as tools for healing, meditation, and bringing peace into people's lives. These patterned circuits offer a place for people of all faiths and beliefs to walk, think, or simply reflect on their lives in order to help themselves and their families heal and become more whole. They provide a safe, effective, and inspiring means to healing on a personal as well as a community level. You will also find benches nearby for reflection.

Labyrinths have been known to man for over four thousand years in almost every religious tradition around the world. They are different from a maze, which is designed purposely to confuse people by confronting them with many entrances, endings and choices.

The design of the labyrinth at Rancho San Rafael is a new seven-circuit design known as the Santa Rosa Labyrinth, and is based on seven concentric circles, with a 50 ft. diameter. By following its single, winding path to the center and back, you may find that the path of this labyrinth can become a metaphor for your own spiritual journey.