Labyrinth of Cultures

Inside the Grace Cathedral atop Nob Hill in San Francisco lies a replica showing an imprint of a medieval labyrinth. Its location at 1100 California Street in San Francisco is just a short walk from the Cable Car Museum and several hotels.

The labyrinths are replicas of the Chartres labyrinth, which was built into the floor of the Chartres Cathedral in France in the year 1220. The tradition says that walking the labyrinth through three stages purgation, illumination, and union will bring the visitor to a meditative state.

The cathedral has two labyrinths. The outdoor labyrinth, made of terrazzo stone, is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is located to the right of the cathedral doors. The indoor labyrinth is open during normal cathedral hours. Walks should start at least 30 minutes prior to closing time. Grace Cathedral is open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays, and from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Sundays.

Grace Cathedral is located 25 minutes north of San Francisco International Airport by car. Other sites nearby include the San Francisco Bay Bridge, San Francisco Bay, Treasure Island, Pier 39, and San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park.