Stadiums have changed from the original antiquity to defining features of modern cites. They come in many designs and sizes. Most of the contemporary stadiums have impressive engineering features that make them stand out. This article highlights some of the most beautiful stadiums around the world.
Olympiastadion (Berlin, Germany)
With a capacity of over 70,000, this stadium was originally built to host the infamous 1936 Olympic Games. It was bombed during the WWII, but restored immediately after the war ended and was refurbished in 1972.
National Stadium (Beijing, China)
Also known as the Bird’s Nest, this stadium has a sitting capacity of between 80,000 and 91,000. Completed in 2008, the stadium was built to last a century. Its notable feature includes a nest-like steel frame exterior structure that resembles the Chinese ceramics. The structure is detached from the internal stadium structure and lights up at night.
First National Bank Stadium (Johannesburg, South Africa)
Often nicknamed Soccer City or The Calabash, FNB Stadium was built in 1989 and refurbished in 20009 to host the 2010 World Cup. The stadium has a capacity of over 90,000, which makes it the largest stadium in Africa. It is also designed to look like a traditional African pot.
The Float (Marina Bay, Singapore)
With a sitting capacity of about 30,000, the Float is the largest floating stage in the world. It is made entirely of steel, and it is more than a just soccer field. Other innovative features include lightning rods, internal drainage systems, cabling structures.
AT&T Stadium (Arlington, Texas-United States)
AT&T is one of the largest domed sports facilities in the world with a sitting capacity of 80,000. Opened in 2009, the stadium also has the largest operable glass doors and a fully retractable roof.
These are five stadiums or sports arenas around the world with engineering and impressive architectural features.