Introduction
You may not know it, but the Les Corts stadium was the original home of Fútbol Club Barcelona. The club played here between 1922 and 1957, and over the years it became one of the most emblematic stadiums in Europe.
Unfortunately, the stadium was demolished in 1957 and replaced by the Camp Nou. But if you're ever in Barcelona, be sure to visit the adjoining park, an ideal place to relax and enjoy history.
History of Les Corts Stadium
The Les Corts stadium, located in the Les Corts district of Barcelona, was the headquarters of Barcelona Football Club from 1922 to 1957.
The stadium was located on the estate that had been Can Guerra, block Located between Numància street, Travessera de Les Corts, Vallespir street and Marquès de Sentmenat street, it witnessed the growth and consolidation of the Barça club.
It was the second football stadium in the club's history, preceded by the current Camp Nou and followed by the Industria street stadium.
The pitch was 101 x 62 meters and was designed by the architects Santiago Mestres and Josep Alemany. Its initial capacity was 25,000 spectators and it reached 60,000 before its demolition. Next to it are the Kindergartens.
The architects behind the Stadium
When you think of Barcelona, the first thing that comes to mind is probably its world famous soccer club, FC Barcelona. And when you think of the FC Barcelona stadium, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the Camp Nou stadium.
But what many people don't know is that the Camp Nou was not the first stadium for FC Barcelona. Between 1922 and 1957, the team played in another stadium called Les Corts. Designed by the architects Santiago Mestres and Josep Alemany, Les Corts was a field measuring 101 x 62 meters with capacity for 25,000 spectators. Over time, that capacity increased to 60,000 before the stadium was finally demolished.
In 1943 the grandstand was built with an exceptional concrete canopy, the work of Eduard Torroja. The fact that the stands of the stadium were in view of the street and the spectators could be seen sitting, gave the club's supporters the nickname of culés. With the transfer of the Camp Nou to its current location, this field was demolished and in its place the large residential buildings that exist today were built.
The current Les Corts Park
If you walk through the park, you can see the remains of the stadium. It is a green and quiet space where you can come to relax, take a break from the city and enjoy a bit of history. The stadium was demolished in 1957, but his memory remains in the park that bears his name.
Cultural and recreational spaces of the Park
Now let's take a look at the park's cultural and recreational spaces. Located in the district of Les Corts, it has areas for theater, sports and educational activities, as well as a multipurpose platform in the central area with games and different attractions.
The park also has impressive nature trails, perfect for a relaxing walk surrounded by beautiful nature. You can also find picnic areas and playgrounds where children can have fun, as well as multiple leisure areas to enjoy with friends or family.
All these characteristics make El Campo de Les Corts an ideal place to enjoy the outdoors. From its art galleries to its sports courts, this amazing park has something for everyone!
Remodeling plans for the Park
The area around the Les Corts stadium has undergone many changes over the years, including ambitious redevelopment plans for the adjoining park.
In the early 1990s, the park was planned to be transformed into a large green space with various sports facilities, including a golf course and tennis courts. Although these plans did not come to fruition, they showed a commitment to preserving the area's heritage while investing in its future.
More recently, plans have been proposed to improve and modernize the park with new pedestrian walkways and bike lanes. These plans are in the development phase and appear to further enhance the visitor experience. So if you are looking for something to do on your next visit, exploring this fascinating corner of Barcelona should be on your list.
Conclusion
So, if you're ever in Barcelona, be sure to visit the stadium where the magic began for FC Barcelona, and the adjoining park, which is a beautiful oasis in the middle of the city.