Angel Mural Village ㅡ An Art Alley with Sea View

The Angel Mural Village (천사벽화마을) is not only an art alley with sea view, but also a place where you can learn about Yeosu’s history in a fun way. Because of this, it is a must-visit spot that you should not miss.

The reason to why it is fun, is basically because in this place you will learn about its history through the wall paintings. In other words, as you are walking along them, you will find facts about the past and present of Yeosu on your own. Because of this, we can say it feels like being in a museum.

But what it is the best part, is that you will have the greatest views of the city. That is the main reason to why you will probably want to spend your whole day there.

Now, it is time to introduce you to this mysterious but beautiful art alley!

1,004 meters of dazzling wall paintings

Origin

What makes this art alley special is the fact that you can read the history, culture, life and local stories of Yeosu through the wall paintings of it. Which were merely done by its residents. Who voluntarily raised money to turn this place into a one that you could reminiscence about the past, but in a less painful way. Of course, not erasing the memories of their city.

Since 2009 they started to revitalize it. However, it was at the time of hosting the Yeosu Expo in 2012 when young people started to gather to create various murals. And because of this, it became one of the main tourist attractions of Yeosu.

This place received the nickname of ‘Angel Mural Village’ due to the distance from certain historical places. From Jinnamgwan (진남관), where admiral Yi Sun-shin (이순신) used as a main base, to Yeosu Marine Park is 1,004 meters. And the pronunciation of 1,004 (천사) sounds like ’Angel’. Because of this, it is called that way.

To enter the village, a total of four sections are available:

You can start from any direction that you want. However, I think it is the best to start from the first section and finish till the ninth.

What to see and expect

It is worth to mention that these nine sections, also have a theme. As shown below:

As you can see, it is just like a museum. The difference is that this place is outdoor and only let us know about the history through art. That is the reason to why this place is one of the most interesting. Because you need to find out about it by your own as you walk in the alleys.

You will find art from a famous korean comic artist

If you are a fan of korean movies or TV shows, you might have already seen at least one of the movies and dramas based in Heo Yeong-man’s (허영만) comics. Such as Bridal Mask (각시탈), Tazza (타짜), and Mr. Go (미스터 고). It is worth to mention that those are just a few from a long list of programs where he had take part in.

Actually, the mural that you see in the picture below, is based in ‘Mr. Go’.

Heo Yeong-man’s mural alley is located in the middle of the third section. Having the name of ‘Magical Artist Heo Young-man’s mural gallery (만화가 허영만 선생의 벽화 갤러리)’. Because it contains his representative works.

Coffee shops

In that area, there are several coffee shops to refresh and calm your hunger after the long walk.

There, you can have a rest with a great view of the sea. Since most of them are in a high area.

Not to mention that the majority have a rooftop. Which means that you can comfortably eat outside and sightsee.

Breathtaking views from the bay

As we mentioned before, the Angel Mural Village (천사벽화마을) is an art alley with sea view. Therefore, you have a stunning view from the bay. And as a plus, you can also see the cityscape.

In fact, in this mural alley you can find great views of the whole city. Just in different angles. That is indeed another reason to why this place is a must-visit.

Art and more art

This place has endless art murals. No matter where you look at, you will find a new artwork to appreciate. And why not? Even take a picture with it.

But what it is impressive, is that despite a lot of people coming, the drawings are not worn out yet. In fact, every of them seem to have been repainted.

A warm story of love

This is indeed a really kind neighborhood. And one of the main reasons to say that, is because the residents gather money to feed the stray cats. Because of that, you will see a wall with cat paintings. And also, one of the main characters of the community is a cat. As seen in the picture.

In addition, most of them seem to be really happy with the fact that a lot of tourists come. They do not get bothered at all. Instead, they try to talk with them and guide them. So they can understand properly the history behind this place.

Bonus

Near this village you will be able to find a lot of historical sites. Such as the famous Oppodae. Which is part of the ruins that the wars that happened in Yeosu left.

To read more about Oppodae, we suggest you to read the following article we have prepared for you:

Opodae: The Remains of War in Yeosu

If what you like the most of South Korea it is the history, then Opodae(오포대), located in Yeosu, is a place you would like to visit to learn about the…

Continue reading

Location

This place is located in Yeosu, Jeollanam Province.

Address: 268 Go-dong, Yeosu, Jeollanam-do

Conclusion

Angel Mural Village (천사벽화마을) is an art alley with sea view that you must visit yes or yes! Not only you can enjoy amazing views from the city, but also you can learn of its history.

If you plan to visit Yeosu, do not miss the chance to visit this place.

In case that you have already gone, tell us your opinion of this place in the comments.

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