Sierra Nevada
Colombia
About this place
History
Stadio Diego Armando Maradona opened as Stadio del Sole on December 6, 1959, built in Fuorigrotta to replace the wartime-destroyed Partenopeo stadium. Renamed San Paolo in 1963, it hosted matches in the 1960 Olympics, 1968 and 1980 European Championships, the 1990 FIFA World Cup (including a semi-final), and the 2019 Summer Universiade. It was renamed after Napoli legend Diego Maradona on December 4, 2020.
Description
The multi-purpose stadium seats approximately 54,726 spectators on a natural grass field measuring 110 × 68 m. It features a full athletics track, four continuous stands under a sweeping roof, and modern LED screens above the North and South ends.
Architectural Features
Designed by Carlo Cocchia and Luigi Corradi, the stadium originally featured external concrete ribs and two-tier concrete stands built in travertine. Major renovations (1988–90, 2018–19) added the sweeping roof, upgraded press towers, expanded seating, new lighting, and underground parking. The 2019 works reduced capacity to install modern seats and safety improvements.
Who is Diego Maradona?
Diego Maradona (1960–2020) was Napoli’s iconic Argentine striker who led the club to its first two Serie A titles (1987, 1990). The stadium was renamed to honour his legacy and deep connection to the city following his death in November 2020.
Records
Originally built for over 90,000 standing fans, it saw a record 90,736 spectators in December 1974. The all-seater capacity dropped to 54,726. It hosted major concerts (U2, Coldplay, Rolling Stones, etc.) and Olympic athletics, international tournaments, and significant club and national matches.
