Definition of Camp Nou

Is there a more famous football stadium than Barcelona's Camp Nou? The fourth largest stadium in the world has seen so many trophies lifted along with some of the most revolutionary and eye catching players of all time.

Finished and opened in 1957, the Camp Nou saw its first major game in 1972 in the form of the European Cup Winners' Cup final between Rangers and Dynamo Moscow. It was the 70s that saw Johan Cruyff join Barca and a large period of success followed. For the 1982 World Cup in Spain, the capacity of the stadium was expanded to a mighty 121,401. This was reduced as seating laws were reformed, although it can now hold a capacity of 99,354 (with a planned expansion to 105,000).

The ground officially held the name of Estadi del FC Barcelona until 2001, despite it being called the Camp Nou by the majority of fans. In 2001, the club held a vote for fans to decide the name, where Camp Nou was officially recognized. The Camp Nou has also been used for concerts, rugby, and even a mass from Pope John Paul II.

In 2010, UEFA awarded the Camp Nou with a "Category 4" title, which replaced the former 5-star rating. The VIP lounge, changing rooms, FC Barcelona museum and all the other offices are routinely recognized as some of the best in Europe.

Barcelona's success has led to the stadium becoming as famous as it is. However, there is something about the design, use and pure atmosphere that takes it above and beyond many other stadiums out there; football or otherwise.