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The end of the 1960s embodied an essential transition towards the generalized use of contentious graffiti. Looking at Italy, we see the development of a transnational youth culture that values graffiti as a means of expression and as a symbol of insubordination. However, the Italian example also reflects certain specific features: graffiti and violence were closely linked, as writing on walls represented both a means of appropriating urban space and of intimidating the opponent. Ultimately, this graffiti appears multifaceted, ranging from humorous provocation to the glorification of terrorism. It is situated at the intersection between militant act, spatial and symbolic concerns, and a relationship to public space seen as a space of confrontation.