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Urban art · Valparaíso, Valparaíso
Museo a Cielo Abierto
Twenty murals by major Chilean artists spread across the streets and stairways of Cerro Bellavista, between Plaza Victoria and La Sebastiana.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Museo a Cielo Abierto
The Museo a Cielo Abierto occupies walls, stairways and façades on Cerro Bellavista. The idea began in 1969, when art students painted the neighborhood's walls, and the ensemble was inaugurated in 1992 as a partnership between the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso and the municipality.
There are 20 murals. Among the authors are Roberto Matta, Nemesio Antúnez, Mario Toral, Roser Bru, José Balmes, Gracia Barrios, Matilde Pérez and María Martner, central figures in 20th-century Chilean art. There is geometric abstraction, human figures and scenes of the sea.
The route follows the Pasteur staircase and the streets Rudolph, Ferrari, Pasaje Guimerá and Héctor Calvo. Many people start at the Ascensor Espíritu Santo, which departs near Plaza Victoria and drops visitors in the middle of the route, next to one of the murals.
Because the works are outdoors, weather and sea spray require periodic restorations. The path crosses a residential neighborhood, and the climb ends near La Sebastiana.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About one hour on foot to see the 20 murals at a relaxed pace.
Best time
In the morning or early afternoon, with direct light on the walls. Combine with La Sebastiana, which sits atop the same hill.
How to get there
From Plaza Victoria, follow Calle Huito to the Ascensor Espíritu Santo if it's operating, or climb the steps of Calle Pasteur. Taxis drop off at the top of Cerro Bellavista.
Tip
Do the route uphill and finish at La Sebastiana; or visit Neruda's house first and walk down viewing the murals, which is easier on the legs.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Museo a Cielo Abierto
Who painted the murals of Museo a Cielo Abierto?
Artists such as Roberto Matta, Nemesio Antúnez, Mario Toral, Roser Bru, José Balmes and Matilde Pérez, as well as students from the Art Institute of the local Catholic university.
Where does the route start?
Near Plaza Victoria. The Pasteur stairway or the Ascensor Espíritu Santo take you to Cerro Bellavista, where the murals are located.
Do you need to pay to see the murals?
There is no ticket office: the works are on the neighborhood's streets. Only the ascensor charges a fare.