Valencia is grappling with a surge in graffiti that has sparked a fierce debate between defenders of historical heritage and local business owners. The city’s streets, corners, and squares are increasingly marked by a growing number of spray-painted works. Some view this as a form of street art. However, many see it as rampant vandalism threatening the beauty and integrity of Valencia’s historic centre.
Valencia’s historic centre, home to several protected monuments, has become a prime target for vandals. Many of these spray-painted tags and designs are applied indiscriminately on monuments and commercial properties. According to the Círculo por la Defensa y Difusión del Patrimonio Cultural and the Asociación de Comerciantes del Centro Histórico, these acts are not just nuisances but are considered criminal offences under Spain’s Penal Code. In cases where graffiti defaces monuments with special protection status, offenders face prison sentences of six months to three years, or fines of up to 24 months, as outlined in Article 323.
These groups assert that few, if any, Bienes de Interés Cultural (BIC) or Bienes de Relevancia Local (BRL) have escaped the vandals’ spray cans. The ongoing defacement of such monuments, they argue, is a serious cultural crime. Meanwhile, the response from local authorities is often delayed, with some graffiti remaining for months before removal.
Business owners call for stronger measures
Local business owners are also voicing their frustration, particularly over the graffiti on shop shutters. “This is not art, it’s an attack on private property,” says the Asociación de Comerciantes del Centro Histórico. Many have advocated for the installation of surveillance cameras in tourist-heavy areas to deter graffiti vandals. While some businesses have embraced street art as decoration, most view it as a violation that detracts from their storefronts. Despite the police presence, business owners argue that night-time patrols are limited. Furthermore, advanced surveillance technology could be vital in catching the culprits responsible for these acts of vandalism.
Vandalism vs. street art: A divided city
While graffiti is often associated with artistic expression, in Valencia, it’s a contentious issue. Some of the graffiti is merely the names of individuals or ‘tags’ (graffiti signatures). Meanwhile others are more detailed works that could be seen as art. However, the distinction is not always clear, and for those who cherish Valencia’s rich cultural history, these spray-painted markings are more eyesores than masterpieces.
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