Rosario honors Lionel Messi with murals and tourism route

In Rosario, Argentina, the childhood home of football star Lionel Messi in the La Bajada neighborhood has evolved into a global pilgrimage site for fans. Located at Lavalleja 525, the modest residence is frequently visited by international tourists from countries including Italy, Bangladesh, and Colombia, who leave jerseys, flags, and messages on the property.

To complement this growing interest, a new urban art initiative is creating a 'caminito de La Pulga' (Little Path of the Flea). As part of the Second Meeting of Muralism and Public Art of Rosario, local artists and community members are creating 23 murals inspired by the footballer. Twelve of these works are concentrated along Lavalleja Street, near Messi's former home. The project, supported by the Municipality of Rosario and AkzoNobel, aims to transform the area into a new urban tourism landmark.