Forty-five million euros. That’s how much the recent transformation of Steigerwaldstadion cost. Picture this incredible transformation.
Steigerwaldstadion in Erfurt Germany boasts a rich history. It began its life in 1931 as the Mitteldeutsche Kampfbahn. It quickly became a vital part of Erfurt’s sporting and cultural scene. It hosted its first international match in August of that year. Germany played Romania. The capacity then was a remarkable 35000 people. Only 1270 could sit though. The rest stood.
World War II interrupted its progress. Soviet forces occupied the area. For a time the pitch was used to grow potatoes. Can you imagine that?
After the war in 1948 the stadium reopened. It was renamed the Georgij-Dimitroff-Stadion. This was in honour of a Bulgarian communist. The early years of the DDR league saw Turbine Erfurt become vice-champions in 1951. Their final game against Chemie Leipzig attracted almost 50000 spectators. A record attendance for the stadium.
In 1970 Steigerwaldstadion held its first floodlit game. The lighting wasn’t up to modern standards though. It only lasted until the 1990s. In 1999 new floodlights were installed. One mast broke during installation. Its top section crashed onto the stands. Night games were delayed until 2003.
After German reunification in 1991 the stadium got its current name Steigerwaldstadion. A public vote decided. The main grandstand was rebuilt with seating. It received an impressive canopy roof. The wooden structure remained a prominent feature.
The most recent reconstruction from 2015 to 2016 completely changed the stadium’s appearance. It’s now octagonal. Remarkably they kept the running track. This is unusual for German stadium renovations.
Today Steigerwaldstadion is much more than just a football ground. It’s a multifunctional venue. It can hold up to 30000 for open-air concerts. It also has a conference and exhibition complex. This complex can host up to 2000 people.
The Steigerwaldstadion’s transformation is a testament to Erfurt’s enduring commitment to sports and culture. It’s a place where history and modernity meet. A place that has seen potato fields and international matches. A true icon of Erfurt.