Madrid may not have the same long-standing reputation for street art as Barcelona, but the Spanish capital has been steadily building one of Europe's most interesting urban mural scenes. Over the past decade, a combination of municipal initiatives, grassroots movements, and international artist residencies has transformed Madrid's walls into a rich tapestry of creative expression.
From the multicultural streets of Lavapies to the trendy lanes of Malasana, Madrid offers a diverse range of styles and scales. This guide covers the key neighborhoods, notable artists, and practical advice for exploring the city's murals on foot.
Lavapies: Multicultural Canvas
Lavapies is Madrid's most diverse neighborhood, and its street art reflects this multiculturalism. Located just south of the city center, this area has been a creative hub for decades, attracting artists, musicians, and activists from around the world. The streets here are densely packed with murals, political stencils, and colorful paste-ups that address themes ranging from immigration and social justice to abstract beauty.
The neighborhood's organic growth means that new works appear constantly. Unlike some areas where murals are strictly commissioned, much of Lavapies' street art arises from the community itself. Local businesses often collaborate with artists to decorate their shutters and facades, creating a patchwork of styles that gives the area its distinctive character.
Must-See Streets in Lavapies
- Calle de la Fe - Features several large murals and a concentration of smaller stencil works on building facades
- Calle del Olivar - Known for its socially conscious artwork and community-driven murals
- Plaza de Lavapies - The central square often serves as a gathering point for local art events and temporary installations
- Calle de Argumosa - The terrace-lined street has several notable murals on its side walls, best viewed in the morning light
Malasana: Retro Cool and Modern Murals
Malasana, named after a heroine of Madrid's 1808 uprising against Napoleon, carries a spirit of rebellion that aligns naturally with street art culture. This neighborhood was at the center of La Movida Madrilena, the countercultural movement of the 1980s that followed the end of Franco's dictatorship. That legacy lives on in the eclectic mix of vintage shops, independent galleries, and, of course, street art.
The works in Malasana tend to be more polished and design-oriented compared to Lavapies. You will find large commissioned murals alongside smaller independent works. The area around Plaza del Dos de Mayo and Calle del Pez is especially rewarding for street art exploration.
Madrid Street Art Project (MSAP)
One of the most significant forces behind Madrid's street art growth is the Madrid Street Art Project, or MSAP. Founded in 2012, this initiative has worked to promote urban art across the city through curated tours, artist collaborations, and documentation. MSAP has helped bridge the gap between institutional art and grassroots street culture, bringing greater visibility to local and international artists working in Madrid.
"Madrid's street art scene is younger than Barcelona's, but it is catching up fast. The combination of municipal support and a passionate underground community has created something truly special." - Madrid urban art researcher
Puerta Cerrada and Historic Center
Madrid's historic center contains some surprising street art highlights. The mural at Puerta Cerrada, designed by artist Alberto Corazon, is one of the most recognizable public artworks in the city. Located at the junction of several old streets near Plaza Mayor, this large-scale work demonstrates how contemporary art can coexist with centuries-old architecture.
Other notable spots in the city center include the streets around Tribunal metro station, the area behind the Reina Sofia museum (which itself houses Picasso's Guernica), and the increasingly artistic Embajadores corridor.
Tips for Exploring Madrid's Murals
- Take the metro to Lavapies or Tribunal - Both stations are centrally located and provide easy access to the best street art neighborhoods
- Combine with a museum visit - The Reina Sofia and Matadero Madrid cultural center both complement a street art walking tour
- Visit on weekdays - Neighborhoods are quieter and easier to photograph without crowds
- Check festival schedules - Madrid hosts several annual mural festivals that bring new works to the city
- Explore side streets - Some of the best works in Madrid are tucked away on small streets that most visitors overlook