Imagine, if you will, a duel under the scorching sun. This is not a scene from a classic Western but a glimpse into the story behind the nickname of the Kalithea Municipal Stadium Grigoris Labrakis.
Welcome to the Kalithea Municipal Stadium Grigoris Labrakis. It is a place steeped in history and local color.
The stadium’s story begins in the late 1960s. This was during a time when Clint Eastwood’s “spaghetti westerns” dominated Greek cinemas. “For a Few Dollars More” was released in Greece as “Duel in El Paso”. The stadium’s cliff backdrop resembled a scene from the movie. Thus, the stadium earned the moniker “El Paso”.
Officially, the Kalithea Municipal Stadium Grigoris Labrakis bears the name of Gregoris Lambrakis. He was a popular statesman murdered in the 1960s. Yet, most locals know it as “El Paso”.
Built in 1970, the stadium has a capacity of 4250. All seats offer a view of the pitch. The Kalithea Municipal Stadium Grigoris Labrakis is located in Kallithea. This district lies just two kilometers south of Athens’ city center.
Getting here is easy. You can take the Metro to Syngrou-Fix station. From there, bus #910 will drop you right outside. Alternatively, trolley-buses #1 or #5 stop nearby.
Once, the site of the Kalithea Municipal Stadium Grigoris Labrakis was an old quarry. The stadium features a large south stand. A smaller stand sits on the north corner. This smaller stand is usually reserved for away fans.
An earthquake once damaged the main stand. It was partly rebuilt some years ago. The entire stadium improved significantly when Kallithea FC was promoted to the 1st Division in 2002. New lights were installed. A brand new roof was built over part of the main stand.
The Kalithea Municipal Stadium Grigoris Labrakis was the training venue for referees during the 2004 Olympic Games.
Although Kallithea FC currently plays at Nea Smyrni Stadium, the Kalithea Municipal Stadium Grigoris Labrakis remains an iconic landmark. It stands as a testament to local history and the enduring power of cinema.
So, as you leave the Kalithea Municipal Stadium Grigoris Labrakis, remember its story. Think of the “Duel in El Paso” and the statesman it honors. The Kalithea Municipal Stadium Grigoris Labrakis is more than just a stadium. It’s a cultural landmark with a unique past.