In the south of Bogotá, where the city's rhythm blends with the tranquility of residential neighborhoods, the Antonio Nariño district holds a secret in plain sight. It's not in museums or galleries, but on its walls, where dozens of murals tell stories of independence, resistance, and community. This is not just another neighborhood; it's an urban canvas that breathes, speaks, and remembers.
Street art here is not vandalism; it's memory. Every stroke, every color, every figure has a reason. The artists, many local, others from different parts of Colombia, have transformed facades into pages of an open book that narrates everything from Antonio Nariño's independence struggle to the daily battles of its inhabitants. Walking these streets is a journey through time, but it's also connecting with the present of a neighborhood redefining itself through art.
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Mural Route: 5 Must-See Stops
1. "El Precursor" (22nd Street at 24th Carrera)
Created in 2020 by the collective "Memoria Viva," this large-format mural depicts Antonio Nariño translating the Rights of Man. Earth tones and deep blues dominate the composition, and if you look closely, you'll see fragments of historical texts interspersed with contemporary faces. It's the ideal starting point, right in front of the main park.
2. "Raíces del Barrio" (26th Carrera between 21st and 22nd Streets)
A work by local artist Camila Rojas (2021), this mural celebrates the neighborhood's cultural diversity. It portrays elderly people playing chess, children chasing a ball, and fruit vendors, all in a vibrant palette of oranges and greens. The artist aimed to capture the essence of community life, and she succeeded with a mastery that invites you to linger and admire every detail.
3. "Grito Silencioso" (20th Street at 27th Carrera)
This mural, signed by the collective "Voces Urbanas" in 2019, is perhaps the most moving. It depicts an indigenous woman with raised hands, from whose palms sprout flowers and birds. It's a tribute to the women leaders of independence and those who lead social movements in the neighborhood today. The gray and red tones contrast with the Bogotá sky, creating a powerful image.
4. "El Abrazo" (25th Carrera at 23rd Street)
Created in 2022 by artist Diego Méndez, this mural shows two intertwined hands against a backdrop of Andean mountains. It symbolizes the union between historical past and community present. Méndez used aerosol and brush techniques, achieving a three-dimensional effect that surprises visitors. It's a favorite for photographs, especially at sunset.
5. "Futuro en Colores" (24th Street at 26th Carrera)
The most recent, created in 2023 by neighborhood youth in a workshop led by graffiti artist "Klan." It's an explosion of colors representing dreams and aspirations: children studying, artists painting, trees growing. What's special here is that each participant left their literal mark, painting a section of the wall. It's art made by and for the community.
Tips for Your Visit
The best time to tour the route is between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when natural light enhances the murals' colors without creating harsh shadows. Wear comfortable shoes; although the walk is about 1.5 kilometers, you'll want to stop constantly.
For photography, use a wide-angle lens to capture entire murals, but don't forget the details: many works have small elements that tell stories on their own. Respect the space: these murals are on the walls of homes and businesses. Do not touch the artwork, keep your voice down, and if you see an artist working, ask before taking photos.
Beyond the Murals
After the tour, the neighborhood offers other treasures. Antonio Nariño Park, with its ancient trees, is perfect for resting and reflecting on what you've seen. Two blocks away, Panadería La 22 sells pandebonos that are local legends. And if the art has left you hungry for more, a 15-minute taxi ride will take you to the Museum of Modern Art Bogotá, or you can explore the street art of La Candelaria, the historic district.
This walk through Antonio Nariño is not just a mural tour; it's a conversation with the city. Each painted wall is a voice saying: "This happened here, we dreamed this here, we resisted here." Street art, in this corner of Bogotá, doesn't decorate; it documents. And walking among these colors, one can't help but feel that history isn't in books, but here, on the street, waiting for you to look it in the eye.
Explore more urban art in our Bogotá Guide for Art Lovers.
Origins
The history of street art in Antonio Nariño began in the 1980s when a group of young artists felt compelled to express their social discontent and desire for identity. At that time, the neighborhood's walls became canvases where they depicted the struggles and dreams of a constantly transforming community. One of the most iconic murals from this era is the one that pays homage to the heroes of independence, where the figure of Simón Bolívar intertwines with Afro-Colombian roots, symbolizing the union of cultures.
A curious fact is that muralism in Antonio Nariño was not only limited to representing social struggle but also served as a means of communication among neighbors, becoming the Facebook of its time. Artists painted messages that, although ephemeral, resonated in the hearts of the neighborhood's inhabitants.
Antonio Nariño House of Culture
This cultural space not only hosts cultural activities but also serves as a meeting point for emerging artists. Here, workshops and exhibitions are organized, allowing the neighborhood's youth to connect with their artistic legacy. Insider Tip: Don't miss the talks with local artists; they are usually very inspiring and often include a guided tour of nearby murals. Address: Calle 43 Sur # 20-40. Price Range: Free.
Journalists' Park
This small park has become a favorite spot for urban art, where murals constantly change, reflecting the community's concerns and hopes. It's an ideal place to enjoy a coffee while watching artists at work. Insider Tip: Visit in the mornings when the light highlights the vibrant colors of the works. Address: Calle 39 Sur with Carrera 20. Price Range: Free.
Timeline or Historical Milestones
- 1980s - The Beginning of the Urban Art Explosion: In the early 80s, a group of emerging artists began using Antonio Nariño's walls as canvases, reflecting the social and political tensions of the time. This explosion of color and social critique laid the groundwork for what would become a vibrant and essential movement in the neighborhood's identity.
- 1991 - The Constitution and Art as Protest: With the new Constitution of 1991, art became a tool for protest and advocacy. Murals began to incorporate symbols of the human rights struggle, turning the neighborhood into a space of cultural resistance.
- 2010s - Consolidation of Art Festivals: During this decade, the neighborhood was enriched by the arrival of street art festivals that attracted renowned artists. These events not only beautified the streets but also fostered a sense of community and belonging.
- 2020 - Murals in Times of Pandemic: Amidst the health crisis, neighborhood artists responded with works reflecting resilience and hope. Murals of solidarity and unity adorned the streets, reminding us that, despite adversity, art always finds a way to shine.
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The Journalists' Park
This small green space has become a meeting point for artists and urban art lovers. The murals here are a reflection of Colombia's journalistic history, full of messages of freedom of expression. Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to enjoy a coffee in the Plaza de los Periodistas, accompanying your reflections with the surrounding art. Address: Calle 26 with Carrera 10. Price Range: Free. -
The Artists' Street
This passage has been transformed into a true open-air museum. The walls here tell stories of love, resistance, and popular culture. Each mural has its own narrative, and walking down the street is like flipping through a history book. Insider Tip: Make sure to bring a camera; every corner is an opportunity to capture the essence of the neighborhood. Guided tours are often organized on weekends, enriching the experience. Address: Calle 25 between Carrera 12 and 13. Price Range: Free.
Key Figures or Events
In the vibrant Antonio Nariño neighborhood, the murals are just one part of a rich narrative woven over the years. Every stroke on the walls tells stories of figures and events that have marked Colombia's history. Among them, we find key figures who have influenced not only independence but also the country's cultural identity.
Antonio Nariño House of Culture
Located at Calle 24 sur # 4-38, this house of culture is a nerve center where art and history meet. Here, exhibitions highlighting the work of local artists are organized, and workshops fostering community participation are held. Insider Tip: Don't miss the "Noches de Murales" (Mural Nights) events, where artists create live interventions, and you can chat with them about their creative process.
Monserrate Hill
Just a few minutes from the neighborhood, this iconic hill not only offers spectacular views of Bogotá but is also a meeting place for artists who have left their mark on urban art. The stairs leading to the summit are adorned with murals reflecting the spirituality and culture of the place. Insider Tip: Visit at dawn to enjoy a natural and cultural spectacle, and don't forget to bring a camera to capture the art and the beauty of the landscape.
Jorge Eliécer Gaitán Theater
This emblematic theater has witnessed countless cultural and political events. Its facade, adorned with murals paying homage to Colombian history and music, is a meeting point for those seeking to understand the city's pulse. Insider Tip: Attend a theater performance or concert, and before entering, take some time to admire the murals that narrate stories of Bogotá's past.
Current Status
The Antonio Nariño neighborhood has evolved in recent years, becoming a meeting point for artists and urban art lovers. What was once a forgotten space is now filled with life and color through vibrant murals that tell stories of resistance and culture. However, not everything is perfect. Some of these murals have been subject to vandalism or deterioration, leading the community to seek ways to preserve these masterpieces. Despite the challenges, the spirit of street art remains alive, reminding us of the importance of collective memory.
The Artist's House
Located at Calle 26 with Carrera 27, La Casa del Artista has become a haven for local creators. This space not only hosts temporary exhibitions but also offers workshops and talks on urban art. Insider Tip: Don't miss the jam session nights where emerging artists showcase their talent while murals come alive in the background.
Parque de Los Periodistas
This small park, hidden amidst the bustling life of the neighborhood, is an ideal place to appreciate lesser-known but equally impactful murals. Every corner of the park tells a story, captured in colors and shapes that invite reflection. Insider Tip: Bring a good book and sit on one of its benches; you'll often find local artists working on new pieces or simply enjoying the atmosphere.