FCBARCELONA.CAT

13.04.2009 10:24

Next stop the Allianz Arena

Berta Brau

Bayern Munich’s ground is one of the great European venues which in little more than three years has become a fortress for the Bavarian outfit. Architecture, lights, colour and atmosphere make it into a fabulous setting for football.

The Allianz Arena stands in Fröttmaning, to the north of Munich, and is seen by some as one of the world’s finest stadiums. Popularly known as the inflatable boat due its shape, work on it began in October 2002 and took nearly three years to complete. The first game took place there on 31 May 2005 between Bayern Munich and a German XI.

One ground, three names

The stadium was named the Allianz Arena as the German insurance carrier was the main shareholder in the company that built it. However, in FIFA and UEFA games its name changes – in the 2006 World Cup it was called the FIFA World Cup Stadium Munich, while in Champions League and UEFA clashes it is the München Arena – since neither body allows advertising in stadium names.

Light and colour

The ground was designed by Herzog & de Meuron, and you can tell from miles away who is playing at home as the outside is covered in more than 2,700 panels which light up in red when Bayern Munich play, in blue when TSV 1860 Munich take the field and in white when in use by the German national team.

Atmosphere and acoustics

Inside the stadium is extremely impressive as well. It can accommodate 70,000 spectators whose seats are completely covered. The Allianz Arena is packed for every game and this combined with its acoustics creates a great atmosphere for the home side and an intimidating one for the visitors.