historic san siro stadium in milan escapes demolition after years of discussions

San Siro stadium saved from demolition

The historic San Siro stadium in Milan, initially slated for replacement with the Cathedral arena by Populous, has been saved from demolition. Jointly utilized by Italian football giants Inter Milan and AC Milan, the stadium was rescued from the wrecking ball by the Regional Commission for the Cultural Heritage of Lombardy. This decision is attributed to the stadium’s cultural importance, primarily stemming from its unique architectural features.

the iconic ramped staircases of San Siro | image by Pierre Antona on Unsplash

the history of San Siro

Named in tribute to Italian football legend Giuseppe Meazza, the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza, commonly known as San Siro, stands as a historic emblem in the city of Milan. Conceived in the 1920s by architect Ulisse Stacchini and engineer Alberto Cugini, the monumental stadium was completed in 1926. In the following years, the venue underwent numerous transformations, during which the iconic ramped staircases were also added. Today, the stadium boasts a seating capacity of 80,018, claiming its status as one of Europe’s largest and Italy’s premier.

As reported by the Italian sports platform Gazetta, the fate of the San Siro stadium is now indisputable: it shall remain untouched and escape demolition. For years, there had been longstanding discussions between Inter and AC Milan centered on tearing down the famed stadium, and making way for a novel structure just a few dozen meters away. However, this dialogue has met its conclusion as the Regional Commission for the Cultural Heritage of Lombardy intervened, recognizing the cultural significance of the stadium’s second tier and endowing it with protective status.

the San Siro stadium boasts a seating capacity of 80,018 | image courtesy of San Siro Stadium

populous’ football cathedral in milan

AC Milan and Inter Milan had previously agreed to move to a new abode: the Cathedral Stadium by Populous. The design drew inspiration from two of Milan’s most iconic architectural landmarks—the Duomo di Milano and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele. The architectural firm wanted the venue to stand apart in every aspect. Encompassing an expanse of 110,000 sqm of green space for sports and leisure activities, the project also aimed to revitalize the entire surrounding area.

The Cathedral’s focus was on being environmentally friendly and obtaining LEED certification. The architects planned to utilize advanced materials and technologies to manage water, electricity, and noise. Within the stadium, the design guaranteed that it met contemporary standards for accessibility, safety, comfort, and excellent views.

Populous’ design drew inspiration from the Duomo di Milano and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele | image courtesy of Populous