Street Art in Barcelona: A Self-Guided Tour Through El Raval

1. Jardins de les Tres Xemeneies

Start your tour at the Jardins de les Tres Xemeneies, a park and public space known for its ever-changing collection of street art. This area is a legal graffiti spot, meaning artists from all over the world come here to create massive murals and graffiti pieces that reflect a wide range of styles, from abstract art to political messages. Every visit offers something new, as the walls are constantly evolving with fresh works.

What to See:

• Large-scale murals covering entire walls, often with a focus on political or social themes.
• Artists working live, creating new graffiti and murals in real-time.
• A diverse range of styles, from traditional graffiti tags to detailed stencils and large murals.

Tips:

• Bring your camera! The park is one of the most Instagrammable spots in El Raval.
• Visit during different times of the year, as the artwork is frequently updated.

2. Carrer de Joaquín Costa

Walking down Carrer de Joaquín Costa, you’ll notice that nearly every surface has been touched by an artist’s brush or spray can. The walls here are a vibrant tapestry of street art, blending together to create a colorful corridor in the heart of El Raval. From murals that stretch across entire buildings to small, hidden stencils, this street is a treasure trove for street art enthusiasts.

What to See:

• Large-scale murals on building façades, often featuring abstract designs or surrealist imagery.
• Intricate stencil work and paste-ups tucked away in alleyways and on doorways.
• Look out for works by local artists like La Castillo and C215, whose work is scattered throughout the area.

Tips:

• Take your time to explore side streets and alleyways, where some of the most unique pieces can be found.
• Stop at one of the local cafés along the way for a coffee and a chance to soak in the artistic atmosphere.

3. MACBA (Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona)

While the Museu d’Art Contemporani de Barcelona (MACBA) is known for its contemporary art exhibitions inside, the outside walls have become an iconic spot for street art and skating culture. The Plaça dels Àngels, located in front of MACBA, is a popular hangout for local artists and skaters, creating a dynamic and ever-changing urban environment.

What to See:

• The walls around the plaza often feature graffiti and murals, many created by well-known street artists.
• The area is a hub for skateboarders, adding to the urban vibe and creating a lively atmosphere.
• Check out the installations and murals created for past Open Walls festivals, an event that brings street artists from around the world to paint legally in the area.

Tips:

• Combine your street art tour with a visit to the MACBA museum to explore its contemporary art exhibitions.
• The plaza is also a great place to people-watch and get a feel for Barcelona’s youth culture.

4. Carrer de l’Aurora

Carrer de l’Aurora is another hidden gem in El Raval, home to some of the most intricate and expressive street art in the neighborhood. The walls here are packed with layered graffiti, murals, and stencils, with each piece telling its own story. It’s a great place to explore the more underground side of Barcelona’s street art scene, with works that push boundaries and challenge conventional norms.

What to See:

• Bold and colorful murals, often featuring social commentary or cultural themes.
• Intricate stencil work and smaller-scale pieces that are easy to miss if you don’t look closely.
• Discover works by local talent and international artists who leave their mark on the vibrant streets of El Raval.

Tips:

• Keep your eyes peeled for smaller, more hidden pieces, as Carrer de l’Aurora is known for its surprises.
• Some pieces may only last a short time, so each visit to this street offers something new.

5. The Keith Haring Mural

No street art tour in Barcelona would be complete without a stop at the famous Keith Haring mural. Originally painted in 1989, the mural was recreated in Plaça de Salvador Seguí to preserve the iconic work. Haring’s vibrant mural, titled “Todos Juntos Podemos Parar el SIDA” (Together We Can Stop AIDS), remains a powerful message about social issues and health awareness. The piece is a must-see for both its historical significance and its bright, bold style.

What to See:

• The mural’s vivid colors and striking figures, typical of Haring’s style, make it a standout piece in El Raval.
• The message of the mural remains as relevant today as it was in the 1980s, adding a deeper meaning to the artwork.
• The mural is well-preserved, allowing visitors to appreciate Haring’s iconic artistic voice in the heart of Barcelona.

Tips:

• The mural is located near the Filmoteca de Catalunya, making it a perfect stop if you’re visiting the local cinema.
• Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and get a closer look at the details of the mural.

Tips for Exploring Street Art in El Raval:

• Wear comfortable shoes: El Raval’s streets are narrow and winding, so be prepared for a lot of walking.
• Respect the art: While street art is often temporary, it’s important to respect the work and the walls it’s painted on.
• Bring a camera: The vibrant colors and unique styles found in El Raval’s street art make for some fantastic photo opportunities.

Conclusion

El Raval’s street art scene is a testament to Barcelona’s creative and rebellious spirit. From large-scale murals to hidden gems, the neighborhood offers an ever-changing canvas of urban art that reflects the city’s cultural diversity and artistic energy. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious, this self-guided tour of El Raval will give you a fresh perspective on Barcelona’s artistic landscape, making it an essential part of any visit to the city.