The Vibrant Street Art of Lisbon
Lisbon, Portugal, a city full of history, stunning architecture and picturesque cityscapes, has also become haven for street art and murals. As you wander through the winding streets and narrow alleys, you'll find a vibrant and evolving canvas that tells the city's story in colors, shapes, and imagination. It is easy to spend hours roaming the city to discover these works of art.
Brief History of Street Art in Lisbon
Street art in Lisbon is quite amazing as well as abundant. What started from a countercultural movement has now become an artistic asset to this colorful city. Graffiti and urban art have had a long history in Lisbon, but became more prevalent during the 2008 economic crisis when artists turned to the streets to express their frustrations as well as their hopes and dreams.
A Plethora of Talented Artists
One of the key figures in Lisbon's street art scene is Vhils. Vhils is known for his unique style of "subtractive" street art, which involves chipping away at walls to reveal the layers beneath. His portraits, often of ordinary people, tell the untold stories of Lisbon's streets. One really needs to step back away from his work to see the full picture.
Other notable street artists include Bordalo II, whose sculptures and murals are made from recycled materials and demonstrate his passion for environmentalism and sustainability. Another well known artist, PichiAvo, combines classical art with graffiti, creating pieces that merge past with the present.
Other major street artists have left their mark in Lisbon such as Shepard Fairey
Where to see the Best Street art in Lisbon…
As you explore Lisbon's neighborhoods, you'll discover different styles and messages hidden and in plain sight
Bairro Alto: Aside from its vibrant nightlife, Bairro Alto is also a hub for street art. Here, you'll find everything from politically charged stencils to abstract murals adorning building facades.
Alfama: The oldest neighborhood in Lisbon, Alfama boasts a unique blend of historical charm and street art. The contrast between the old buildings and contemporary graffiti is a unique mix.
Marvila: This industrial district has become a hotspot for artists, providing plenty of blank walls for creativity to flourish. Marvila's urban art is as diverse as the district itself. A little outside of the main center of Lisbon but worth the venture.
LX Factory: This former industrial complex turned cultural and creative hub is a great way to spend an afternoon dining, shopping and checking out the cool street art. Easy to get to from local trams and buses departing at Cais do Sodré.
Quinta do Mochco (Sacavem): Sacavém once was known as a dangerous neighborhood. Today, it is known as the “largest open-air urban art gallery in Europe”. For a long time in Sacavém everything was abandoned and buses and taxis would not go there. To rehabilitate the neighborhood, the local town hall organized a Street Art Festival in 2014. The creation of the urban Art Festival was a turning point for Quinta do Mocho. Since the murals were painted, the area has turned around, bus lines serves the area, locals take pride in the art in their community, tours are thriving and the crime rate has fallen. All the buildings, owned by the local government, are rented out to low-income families and there are 120 incredible examples of street art to be discovered.
A walking tour is highly recommended and be sure to stay for the lunch in neighborhood if offered. Below are just a few of the murals you will find in Sacavem.
Resources, Tours and Walking Maps
Street Art in Quinta do Mochco (Sacavem): More info about this project and link for walking tours. https://www.thelisbonconnection.com/lisbon-sacavem-from-no-go-zone-to-europes-largest-open-air-art-gallery/
Banksy Museum: https://en.museubanksy.pt
Additional blog on Street Art in Lisbon with walking map by Guila Blocal. https://www.blocal-travel.com/street-art/lisbon-street-art-guide/
Lisbon Street Art Tours: http://www.lisbonstreetarttours.com
Urban Revolution Exhibit - Ending in late October of 2023. https://urbanrevolution.pt
Street Artists you will find in Lisbon. https://urbanrevolution.pt/artistas/