Here’s a comprehensive guide to the Real Madrid Football Ground, the Santiago Bernabéu, including its history, features, tour information, and ongoing renovations.
1. What is the History of the Real Madrid Football Ground?
The Real Madrid football ground, officially known as the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, boasts a rich history intertwined with the triumphs of one of the world’s most successful football clubs. Inaugurated in 1947, the stadium is named after Santiago Bernabéu, the legendary manager who presided over Real Madrid from 1943 to 1978. His visionary leadership transformed the club into a global powerhouse.
1.1. Key Historical Milestones
- 1947: The Santiago Bernabéu Stadium officially opens, marking a new era for Real Madrid.
- 1957: The stadium hosts its first European Cup final, solidifying its status as a premier football venue.
- 1982: The Bernabéu is a key venue for the FIFA World Cup, hosting the final match.
- Ongoing: Continuous renovations and upgrades ensure the stadium remains a state-of-the-art facility.
1.2. Santiago Bernabéu: The Man Behind the Name
Santiago Bernabéu’s influence extends far beyond the stadium’s name. As a player, manager, and president, he shaped Real Madrid’s identity, fostering a culture of excellence and global ambition. His legacy is deeply embedded in the club’s history and the stadium that bears his name.
2. What are the Key Features of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium?
The Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is more than just a football ground; it’s an iconic landmark that combines history, innovation, and a passion for the beautiful game. With a seating capacity of over 80,000 and more than 240 VIP boxes, the stadium offers an unparalleled experience for fans.
2.1. Capacity and Seating
- Total Capacity: Over 80,000 spectators
- VIP Boxes: More than 240, offering premium viewing experiences
- Accessibility: 800 new seats created for people with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive environment
2.2. Modern Amenities
The stadium is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities to enhance the fan experience, including:
- Interactive Screens: Located throughout the Santiago Bernabéu Museum, offering insights into the club’s history
- Improved Access: New doors, escalators, and elevators for easier transit and evacuation
- Architectural Accessibility: Elimination of architectural barriers in all access points
2.3. Retractable Roof
One of the stadium’s most impressive features is its retractable roof, which allows the pitch to be used in any weather conditions. This also reduces the acoustic impact on local residents.
3. How to Take a Tour of the Real Madrid Football Ground?
The Tour Bernabéu offers an immersive experience for football fans, allowing them to explore one of the world’s most iconic sports venues. The tour provides insights into the history of Real Madrid and the transformation of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
3.1. Tour Highlights
The tour includes access to:
- Panoramic View: An incredible panoramic view of the stadium
- Real Madrid CF Museum: Relive glorious moments through priceless objects, including the club’s 14 Champions League titles.
- Interactive Screens: Showcasing the most iconic moments in the club’s history
- Trophy Room: An in-depth look at all the trophies that the club has earned over the years.
- Presidential Box: An exclusive look at one of the most exclusive areas of the stadium.
- Players Tunnel: Walking in the footsteps of your favorite players.
3.2. Important Information for Visitors
- Entrance: The current entrance to Tour Bernabéu is located on Avenida de Concha Espina, at Gate 28.
- Variations: Due to events and remodeling work, the tour route and times may vary. Visitors are advised to check the website, ticket offices, or entrance door for the latest information.
- Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online at the Real Madrid website.
3.3. The Real Madrid CF Museum
The Real Madrid CF Museum is a must-see for any fan of the club. It is located inside the stadium and can be accessed via the Tour Bernabéu. Inside, there is an extensive collection of trophies, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits that tell the story of Real Madrid’s rich history.
3.4. Accessibility for Disabled Guests
The Bernabéu tour is accessible for disabled guests. Architectural barriers have been eliminated in all access points of the stadium. There are also 800 new seats to guarantee that people with different abilities can enjoy the stadium.
4. What are the Ongoing Renovations at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium?
The Santiago Bernabéu is undergoing a significant redevelopment to create a cutting-edge, wraparound image. Designed by the GMP-L35-Ribas group of architects, the renovated stadium aims to be a landmark fit for the 22nd century.
4.1. Key Renovation Features
- Wraparound Design: A unique, cutting-edge design that enhances the stadium’s appearance.
- Large Cornice: Overhanging the main entrance, extending over the square without supports, creating a 2000 square meter atrium.
- New Stand: A new stand on the east side, slightly higher than the old one.
- Retractable Roof: Allowing the pitch to be used in any weather conditions and reducing noise for local residents.
- Improved Access: Modernization of access, transit, and evacuation routes with new doors, escalators, and elevators.
4.2. Benefits of the Redevelopment
The renovations aim to provide:
- Enhanced Fan Experience: Modern amenities and improved accessibility
- Increased Functionality: The retractable roof allows for year-round use of the stadium.
- Aesthetic Appeal: A visually stunning design that enhances the stadium’s iconic status.
- Community Benefits: Reduced noise impact for local residents
4.3. Completion Date
The renovations are expected to be completed sometime in 2026.
5. Why is the Real Madrid Football Ground Important?
The Real Madrid football ground is important not just because of its features, but due to what it represents to the city of Madrid, Spain, and the footballing world at large.
5.1. Cultural Significance
The Real Madrid football ground is a national landmark of sorts, and has been a home for the Spanish national team many times. It is one of the most famous stadiums in the world, and attracts tourists from all over.
5.2. Economic Significance
The Real Madrid football ground has a huge economic impact on the city of Madrid, as it attracts so many tourists and has a huge capacity.
5.3. Club Significance
The Real Madrid football ground has been the home of Real Madrid since 1947, and has seen countless games, legendary players, and trophies.
6. How to Get to the Real Madrid Football Ground?
Getting to the Real Madrid football ground is relatively easy, as there are many transportation options.
6.1. By Metro
The Real Madrid football ground has its own metro stop right outside the stadium. The stop is called “Santiago Bernabéu” and is on line 10.
6.2. By Bus
Several bus lines run directly to the stadium. These include lines 14, 27, 40, 43, 120, 147 and 150.
6.3. By Car
Driving to the stadium is also an option, although parking may be hard to come by.
7. What are Some Facts About the Real Madrid Football Ground?
Here are some interesting facts about the Real Madrid football ground:
7.1. Fact #1: It Has Hosted Many Major Finals
The Santiago Bernabéu has hosted the European Cup/Champions League final four times: 1957, 1969, 1980, and 2010. It also hosted the final of the 1964 European Championship and the 1982 FIFA World Cup.
7.2. Fact #2: It is Named After a Legendary Figure
The Real Madrid football ground is named after Santiago Bernabéu, who, as mentioned previously, was a legendary manager, player, and president of Real Madrid.
7.3. Fact #3: It is a Large Stadium
The Real Madrid football ground is one of the biggest stadiums in the world, with a capacity of 80,000+.
7.4. Fact #4: It is Highly Rated
The Real Madrid football ground is a UEFA Category 4 stadium, which is the highest rating that UEFA gives to a stadium.
7.5. Fact #5: It Is Open All Year Round
The Real Madrid football ground is open all year round, only closing for two days of the year, one of which is Christmas.
8. What Else is There to Do Around the Real Madrid Football Ground?
There is plenty to do around the Real Madrid football ground, given that it is located in the heart of Madrid.
8.1. Restaurants
There are many restaurants to choose from, whether you’re looking for tapas or a full sit down meal.
8.2. Shopping
There are many places to go shopping, whether you’re looking for souvenirs or something more luxurious.
8.3. Other Tourist Attractions
Being in Madrid, there are plenty of other tourist attractions to choose from. Some of the more popular tourist attractions are the Royal Palace of Madrid, El Retiro Park, and the Prado Museum.
9. Who Else Plays at the Real Madrid Football Ground?
Although it is the home of Real Madrid, they are not the only team to play at the Real Madrid football ground.
9.1. The Spanish National Team
The Spanish national team has played many games at the Real Madrid football ground.
9.2. Other Events
Other events such as concerts and other sporting events have been held at the Real Madrid football ground.
10. How Does the Real Madrid Football Ground Compare to Other Stadiums?
The Real Madrid football ground is one of the biggest and most historic stadiums in the world, but how does it compare to other stadiums?
10.1. Camp Nou
Camp Nou is the home of FC Barcelona, Real Madrid’s arch rival. Although the Camp Nou has a larger capacity, the Real Madrid football ground is considered by many to be the more modern and iconic stadium.
10.2. Wembley Stadium
Wembley Stadium in London is another iconic stadium, and has a similar capacity to the Real Madrid football ground. Both stadiums are considered to be amongst the best in the world.
10.3. Allianz Arena
Allianz Arena in Munich is one of the most modern stadiums in the world, and has a similar capacity to the Real Madrid football ground. The Allianz Arena is known for its exterior lighting, which can change colors depending on which team is playing.
FAQ About the Real Madrid Football Ground
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Real Madrid football ground:
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What is the capacity of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium?
The stadium has a seating capacity of over 80,000.
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Who is the stadium named after?
The stadium is named after Santiago Bernabéu, a legendary manager, player, and president of Real Madrid.
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Where is the entrance to Tour Bernabéu located?
The entrance is located on Avenida de Concha Espina, at Gate 28.
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What is included in the Tour Bernabéu?
The tour includes access to a panoramic view of the stadium, the Real Madrid CF Museum, and interactive screens.
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Is the stadium accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, the stadium has been made accessible, with new seats and elimination of architectural barriers.
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What are the key features of the ongoing renovations?
The renovations include a wraparound design, a retractable roof, and improved access routes.
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When are the renovations expected to be completed?
The renovations are expected to be completed sometime in 2026.
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How can I purchase tickets for the Tour Bernabéu?
Tickets can be purchased online at the Real Madrid website.
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What should I do if the tour route or times vary?
Check the website, ticket offices, or entrance door for the latest information.
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Are there any other events held at the stadium?
Yes, the stadium hosts various events, including concerts and other sporting events.
Visiting the Real Madrid football ground is a worthwhile experience for fans and tourists alike. With its rich history and ongoing improvements, it is likely to continue being one of the most important landmarks in Madrid.
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