Comuna 13's murals face constant exposure to sun, rain, and the wear of heavy foot traffic along the tour route -- maintaining them isn't automatic, and it says something about the community's investment in the art's longevity.
Why restoration is necessary
Colombia's climate -- intense sun at altitude, seasonal heavy rain -- takes a real toll on outdoor paint over time, fading colors and degrading surfaces faster than a comparable indoor artwork would experience.
Who typically handles restoration
Restoration is often handled by the original artist or collective responsible for a piece, or by community art programs coordinating touch-ups and repainting as needed -- generally not a centralized, single authority but a distributed effort tied to who created or currently maintains a relationship with a given wall.
The balance between preservation and evolution
Not every mural is preserved indefinitely in its exact original form -- some pieces get touched up to maintain their original design, while others are eventually replaced entirely with new work, reflecting an evolving rather than static approach to the neighborhood's visual landscape.
What this means for repeat visitors
A mural you photographed on one visit may look different -- restored, modified, or entirely replaced -- on a return trip, which is a normal part of how this living art landscape functions rather than a sign of neglect.
Supporting preservation as a visitor
Respecting the murals directly (not touching or leaning on painted surfaces) and supporting tours or purchases that channel money back to artists and community programs are practical ways visitors contribute to the ongoing maintenance this art requires.
See the Murals in Person
A guided walk through Comuna 13's murals with a local guide who knows the artists and the stories behind each wall.
See Comuna 13 Tours & Prices →Frequently Asked Questions
Do Comuna 13's murals get restored over time?
Yes -- outdoor exposure to sun and rain degrades paint over time, and restoration is typically handled by the original artist, collective, or community art programs.
Will a mural look the same on a repeat visit?
Not necessarily -- pieces get touched up, modified, or sometimes replaced entirely, reflecting an evolving rather than static art landscape.
How can visitors support mural preservation?
Avoid touching or leaning on painted surfaces, and support tours or purchases that channel money back to the artists and community programs maintaining the art.