Some cities are decorated with geometric designs spiraling up skyscrapers, but the murals in Belfast usually have a deeper meaning. The street art that covers the sides of buildings in the capital of Northern Ireland has traditionally been related to the times of the Troubles.

The political meanings behind Belfast’s many murals are significant, and some of the feelings about those politics are still a little raw. Therefore, exploring this unique street art with a local guide may be the best way to discover (and understand) the stories behind the colored walls. Guides can bring you into neighborhoods where residents still value their privacy and show off the most poignant memorials.

Although a central theme in many of Belfast’s murals is conflict, the street art scene has evolved in recent years thanks to an annual festival that takes place in the city’s Cathedral district. The area is full of bright walls and fantasy-fueled images created by international artists, and there is always new work to discover.

The Duel of Belfast

Irish artist Conor Harrington’s gray, black, and white mural titled “The Duel of Belfast, Dance by Candlelight” was created as part of the Cathedral Quarter’s Arts Festival and quickly became a focal point in the city. Given the current political situation, many view this now-iconic piece at High Street Court as highlighting a waning empire determined to retain its last vestiges of power. The artist has indicated that the piece is less about Britain and more about the Colonial West as a whole.

South East by Emic

This mural, created by artist Eion McGinn, better known as Emic, was part of Seehead Arts’ Hit the North festival. The two hands pointing South and East are surrounded by colorful bricks, and there is a retro surprise hidden in the mural if you have the right accessories. The artist left a pair of 3-D glasses at a nearby pub, so be sure to request to use them to experience the mural in three dimensions.

Andy Council’s Phoenix

North Street, part of Belfast’s Cathedral District, is generally in disrepair, with abandoned buildings serving as canvases for street artists like Andy Council from Bristol. His colorful phoenix, made out of a cityscape, symbolizes rising from the ashes, likely a commentary on the fact that this street was devastated by a fire in 2004.

MTO’s Son of Protagoras

French street artist MTO created this evocative mural titled “Son of Protagoras” during the Hit the North festival in the Cathedral District in 2014. The crouching figure holds a dove of peace, which has been pierced by two red arrows, each symbolically linked to the Protestant and Catholic churches, thereby alluding to the period of the Troubles. This mythical figure can be found at 21 Talbot Street, strategically placed outside the Northern Ireland War Memorial.

Pang on Hill Street

Near the iconic Duel of Belfast mural on Hill Street, Pang’s work is part of a series titled “Miniature Asshole.” This playful mural by the London-based artist offers a refreshing break from the usual political themes and features her cheeky character working to cover up a portrait by Rembrandt.

Dank on Talbot Street

Dan Kitchener, often known as Dank, created the mesmerizing mural called “Blurry Eyed” on Talbot Street. This captivating cityscape evokes a Blade Runner feel, with lights that seem to flow off the wall, pulling the viewer in. The metropolitan scene is perfectly suited for the lively ambiance of Talbot Street, where it can be seen next to another striking piece by Spanish artist Sabek.

David Bowie by VisualWaste

Local artist Visual Waste created this striking tribute to the late David Bowie. The beloved performer appears to float through the galaxy in this imaginative portrait, located outside The Hudson Bar on Gresham Street. Visual Waste, whose real name is Dean Kane, is part of the vibrant street art scene that is pushing the boundaries beyond the traditional political themes seen in many Belfast murals.

Bobby Sands on Falls Road

One of the most famous political murals in Belfast immortalizes Bobby Sands, a member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army who was jailed and died in prison after a 66-day hunger strike. This tribute can be seen on the side of the Sinn Fein headquarters at 49 Falls Road.

George Best on Blythe Street

Sports enthusiasts cannot miss the mural of the hometown hero George Best. The international soccer star, who hails from Belfast, is immortalized on Blythe Street, demonstrating his prowess as he kicks a ball alongside statistics that defined his illustrious career.

Kent Street’s Golden Lion Monkey

The Golden Lion Monkey on Kent Street, created by artist Louis, is another striking mural in Belfast. The spray-painted lines that form its tousled mane appear both spontaneous and meticulously planned. Its vibrant colors and expressive eyes stand out against the black background, inviting viewers to appreciate the intricate details of each colorful stroke of fur.