Football turns out to be one of the sports that arouses the greatest passions worldwide. In this realm, there are historical places that are essential on the list of any history-obsessed fan, including: River Plate's Monumental Stadium, Boca Juniors' La Bombonera, Real Madrid's Bernabéu, and Barcelona's Camp Nou, among others.
On a global scale, there's a stadium that carries the weight of major clashes and football encounters. We're talking about the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In this article, we'll review its history and tell you how to visit this historic place.
Maracanã: History
Inaugurated in 1950 for the FIFA World Cup, it quickly became a cultural and sporting symbol for Brazil and the entire world. Its modern style and high architectural standards framed it from the beginning as one of the world's best stadiums, renowned for its pitch, quality of its arches, seating, and more.
Its worldwide fame peaked during the 1950 World Cup final, famously known as the "Maracanazo". Brazil unexpectedly lost to Uruguay in front of over 200,000 spectators. It was a shocking upset at the time, a huge blow for the host nation, and it still holds the record for the largest attendance at a football match.
Over time, Maracanã witnessed numerous historic and thrilling events, including legendary concerts and iconic ceremonies like the closing of the 2016 Olympics. Recognized for its innovative design and ability to host large crowds, this contributed to its status as one of the temples of world football.
Technical Details
Here are some technical aspects to consider when preparing for an optimal visit to the stadium:
- Location: It is situated in the Maracanã neighborhood, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Capacity: Currently, it has a capacity for approximately 78,000 spectators.
- Tower Height: The iconic lighting towers of Maracanã reach a height of about 70 meters, contributing to its distinctive appearance and providing adequate illumination for night events.
- Accessibility: It has multiple entrances and exits that facilitate spectator movement, meeting the required standards of safety and comfort for massive events.
How to Visit the Stadium
While the stadium can be visited casually by attending a match held there, the best way to experience its intimacy and learn more about its history is through specialized tours. These tours guide tourists and enthusiasts through the heart of Brazilian football:
Maracanã Stadium Tour in Rio de Janeiro: In this 4-hour tour, visitors have the privilege of entering the stadium's inner sanctum, gaining exclusive access. They can walk through the locker rooms, attend a mock press conference, and visit the museum, immersing themselves in its history.
The history of football belongs not to one country or culture alone. Globally, each team and national squad contributes to expanding the story of this sport that has attracted millions for years. Yet, if there's a way to get close to the origins of this activity, it's by visiting the grand Maracanã Stadium.