Sporting events over the last century have been an integral part of the human experience. They have inspired millions of athletes and fans all over the world. As a result, some of the most fantastic architectural creativity has gone into the construction of sporting arenas. These stadiums are a tribute to the memory of the players and fans alike, harboring the ghosts of spectacular victories and devastating defeats. They are dedicated to the unrelenting pursuit of pride and greatness.
1. Melbourne Cricket Ground (Melbourne, Australia)
The oldest continuously operating sports arena in the world is also one of the largest, with a capacity of over 100,000. Built in 1854, it has grown into an enormous spectacle, hosting events for one of the fasting growing sports in the world. It also boasts the world record for the highest light towers in a sports arena.
2. Churchill Downs (Louisville, Kentucky)
The grandfather of American horse racing venues, Churchill Downs is a truly historic landmark. It has been in operation since 1875, and has played host to hundreds of breathtaking high stakes finishes in the crown jewel event of the Triple Crown.
3. Anfield (Liverpool, England)
Home to the world famous Liverpool Football Club, Anfield is one of the world’s sports meccas. Constructed in a stalwart square shape in 1884, the stadium has undergone several modern upgrades, but has stayed true to its original form.
4. Old Trafford (Manchester, England)
The name says it all. The home ground of Manchester United, Old Trafford is one of the oldest and most fabled sports arenas in the world. Many famous players and key events in English and world football have graced its pitch. Built in 1910, it has become one of the most advanced and appealing stadiums in the world.
5. Fenway Park (Boston, Massachusetts)
Constructed in 1912, Fenway Park is the oldest major league baseball stadium in America. Fenway is famous not only for the Boston Red Sox, but also for its unique architectural features. Its left field wall, known as the Green Monster, is the product of limited building space and strange angular dimensions.
6. Wrigley Field (Chicago, Illinois)
Wrigley Field ranks just behind Fenway Park as the second oldest MLB ballpark, built in 1914. Its field is a vast green expanse shadowed by remarkable views of the Chicago skyline.
7. Wimbledon (London, England)
Known as the cathedral of professional tennis, Wimbledon was erected in 1922 at the site of the All England Racquet Club. It only plays host to public events for two weeks out of the year, during the Wimbledon grand slam tournament. Its new center court is a marvel to behold, featuring comfortable 360 degree seating under a retractable roof.
8. San Siro (Milan, Italy)
The San Siro, named after its neighborhood in the city of Milan, Italy, is the home of two world famous football clubs, AC Milan and Inter Milan. Built in 1925, it underwent a major renovation in 1990 when Italy hosted the World Cup. Its brilliant and unique features draw thousands of visitors every year, including sports fans and architecture buffs.
9. Bryant-Denny Stadium (Tuscaloosa, Alabama)
Home to the University of Alabama’s legendary football team, Bryant-Denny was built in 1929, and has hosted over 200 home wins for the resident Crimson Tide. It is the home of the most national championships in NCAA football, and the legendary coach Paul “Bear” Bryant.
10. Notre Dame Stadium (South Bend, Indiana)
One of the most historic sites in college football, Notre Dame Stadium, built in 1930, is one of the most recognizable stadiums in the world. Its field, surrounded by its huge bowl-shaped coliseum, has hosted countless legends in college football.
