Visitors to Toulouse can now experience breathtaking trompe-l'œil murals that create stunning optical illusions along the banks of the Garonne River. These giant 3D artworks, which give the impression of falling into space or being devoured by a massive lion, will be on display until October 6, 2025, captivating passersby with their surprising and colorful imagery.

For the third consecutive year, the Côte du Midi Tourism Office, based in Narbonne in the Aude department, has organized this special operation where anamorphoses invade the streets of the Pink City. These deformed images require viewers to position themselves at specific marked spots on the ground to properly observe the three-dimensional effect and fully appreciate the artistic illusion.

The five monumental 3D frescoes pay tribute to the iconic landscapes of the Côte du Midi region, serving both to dazzle Toulouse residents and inspire ideas for their next vacation destinations. Created by graffiti artists Sweo and Nikita, these works are strategically located in the Saint-Cyprien district along the Port Viguerie quays beside the Garonne River.

Each mural represents a different attraction from the Côte du Midi region. The artworks include Roman Narbonne, allowing visitors to walk in the footsteps of its ancient past; the vineyards of the Côte du Midi, discovered from the perspective of a ladybug; the African Reserve of Sigean, featuring a roaring lion; the lighthouse of Port-La Nouvelle, guardian of the Mediterranean Sea; and Fontfroide Abbey, a jewel of Cistercian heritage.

To complement the street art experience, a photo exhibition has been installed on Henri Martin Promenade on the other side of the river, near Saint-Pierre Square. This additional display allows visitors to explore the artwork from different perspectives and learn more about the featured destinations.

Every weekend, a team from the Côte du Midi Tourism Office will be present at the site to engage with visitors and distribute prizes through various activities. A contest game offers participants the chance to win a week-long stay for four people in a charming gîte, valued at 1,500 euros. The prize package includes entrance tickets to the African Reserve of Sigean, Fontfroide Abbey, and the Narbo Via Museum.

The interactive nature of these installations requires viewers to stand on designated floor markings to achieve the proper viewing angle for the optical illusions to work effectively. This positioning creates the dramatic three-dimensional effect that makes the artwork appear to leap off the ground or walls, creating an immersive experience that blurs the line between reality and artistic imagination.