Carnations in rifle barrels. That’s the striking image linked to the spirit of change that one mural references near here. We are standing before the “Just Traveling Around… The Other Side” mural by RAM. It’s a piece born from the MURO – Festival de Arte Urbana Lx 2016.
Lisbon is a city splashed with color. Buildings are brightly painted. Flowering trees add beauty. Bougainvillea spills down walls. Painted trolleys roll through the streets. Art is everywhere in Lisbon. Look for wrought-iron balconies. Admire the mosaic sidewalks. Find beautiful colored tiles. Street art and murals add to the vibrancy.
Many murals are in an underpass near the Lisbon Zoo. Others decorate the sides of large buildings. The “Just Traveling Around… The Other Side” mural is one of these vibrant artworks. It was part of the MURO festival. This festival brought urban art to Lisbon in 2016.
One mural in Lisbon connects to the Carnation Revolution. Portugal endured a long period of fascist rule. From 1932 to 1974, Antonio de Oliveira Salazar and Marcelo Caetano led a repressive regime. On April 25, 1974, the Carnation Revolution changed everything. The military overthrew the government. Citizens showed their support with carnations. They placed the flowers in soldiers’ rifle barrels. This act symbolized the peaceful end to the dictatorship.
“Just Traveling Around… The Other Side” captures a moment of change and reflection. The artist RAM created this mural. It is part of a larger movement. This movement uses art to transform urban spaces. The mural stands as a testament to Lisbon’s artistic spirit. It reflects the city’s history. It adds to the city’s vibrant culture.
As you explore Lisbon, take time to discover the murals. Each one tells a story. Each one adds a unique perspective to the city’s narrative. “Just Traveling Around… The Other Side” is a powerful reminder. It reminds us of Portugal’s journey to democracy. It reflects the spirit of the Carnation Revolution. It is a symbol of hope. It is a symbol of change. It stands as a colorful beacon in Lisbon.