Football stadium: Arena Civica Gianni Brera, Milan, Italy

Milan, a city known for its fashion, design, and the San Siro football stadium, holds an often-overlooked gem at its heart: the Arena Civica Gianni Brera. Nestled in the picturesque Parco Sempione, this neoclassical stadium is not just an architectural marvel but a testament to the city’s history and cultural legacy.

The Arena Civica was inaugurated on August 18, 1807, under the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte. Designed by the renowned architect Luigi Canonica, the arena was inspired by ancient Roman amphitheaters, combining classical elegance with practical functionality. Its original purpose was to host public events such as horse races, festivals, and even naval battles—thanks to its ingenious design, which allowed it to be flooded with water.

Over the years, the arena adapted to Milan's evolving cultural landscape. In the 20th century, it became synonymous with sports, hosting football matches, athletics, and even cycling events. It was renamed the Arena Gianni Brera in 2002 to honor the celebrated Italian sports journalist and writer Gianni Brera.

The match I attended was Internazionale vs AC Milan in the italian women’s top league. The match was played on a beautiful sunny and chilly Saturday afternoon. The match were quite open, but Inter scored the winning goal in the middle of the second half, securing well deserved 3 point.

 

Football stadium: Giuseppe Meazza, Milano, Italy

Giuseppe Meazza Stadium, often referred to as the San Siro, is a legendary football stadium located in Milan, Italy. It is one of the largest stadiums in Europe and has been home to both AC Milan and Inter Milan since its opening in 1926.

The stadium was originally named after the famous Italian footballer Giuseppe Meazza, who played for both AC Milan and Inter Milan. It has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years, most notably in 1980 when it was completely rebuilt. Today, the San Siro boasts a modern and functional design, with a capacity of around 75,000 spectators.

Growing up with Arrigo Sacchi´s golden team in the beginning of the 1990´s, the stadium was the home of the best football at that time.

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The atmosphere in the stadium is a cauldron of passion, a symphony of chants, and a visual spectacle that leaves a lasting impression. The steep stands, filled with thousands of passionate fans, create a deafening roar that reverberates throughout the stadium.

Date visited: November 25, 2023

Match: AC Milan - Fiorentina 1-0

Hernandez´s winning penalty goal: