Imagine the roar of the crowd. Feel the electric atmosphere that pulses through Easter Road Stadium. Known to Hibernian fans as “The Holy Ground” or “The Leith San Siro” this stadium has been the proud home of Hibernian Football Club since 1893.
Easter Road is not just a stadium. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of Hibs and their passionate supporters. The stadium’s story is woven into the very fabric of Leith. It is located in the Leith area of Edinburgh.
Hibs first played on this very site in 1893. The first match at Easter Road was a friendly against Clyde. That makes it more than 130 years of football history right here. Easter Road staged its first Scottish League match when Hibs joined the league in 1893.
Easter Road holds a record. It boasts the highest attendance for a Scottish match outside of Glasgow. A staggering 65,860 fans packed into the stadium on 2 January 1950 for an Edinburgh derby against Hearts.
This stadium has seen its fair share of changes. In the early days, the pitch had a noticeable slope. The north end was a full six feet lower than the south. This quirky feature was finally removed in 2000.
After the Second World War, Hibs enjoyed a period of great success. They won three league championships between 1948 and 1952. Easter Road became the first British ground to host European Cup football.
Throughout its history, Easter Road has undergone significant redevelopments. The stadium was made all-seated. The capacity was greatly reduced in the 1980s. Redevelopment of the stadium began in 1995 and was completed in 2010. Today, Easter Road boasts an all-seated capacity of 20,421 making it the fifth-largest football stadium in Scotland.
Easter Road has also hosted other sporting events. Edinburgh Rugby called it home for a brief period in the late 1990s. Scotland has played several international matches here. This ground has even seen a rock concert. Elton John graced the pitch in 2005.
The stadium is divided into four sections. They are known as the Famous Five, East, South, and West stands. Each stand offers a unique perspective. The newest addition is the East Stand which was completed in 2010.
Getting here is easy. Edinburgh Waverley station is just a short walk away. The Edinburgh tram extension serves the stadium via the McDonald Road stop. Several Lothian Buses routes also serve Easter Road.
More than just a football ground, Easter Road is a versatile venue. Its hospitality suites host various events. These range from conferences to weddings. The international headquarters of the Homeless World Cup is even based here.
As you stand here, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Easter Road is a place where memories are made. It is a place where the passion for football burns bright. It is truly the “Holy Ground” for Hibs fans everywhere.