Camp Nou origins

Formally, the construction of the Camp Nou started on 28 March 1954. Basically, FC Barcelona’s previous stadium, had no room for expansion.

Hence, once a plot of land was purchased a procession of several thousands of people made the journey from the old Camp de Les Corts to La Masia de Can Planes.  Afterwards, the ceremony of laying the first stone was held. Indeed, a solemn affair in the presence of Miró-Sans, the head of the Civil Government of Barcelona and the archbishop of Barcelona, Gregorio Modrego.

Consequesntly, the project was completed one year later.  Albeit, the construction was only supposed to last eight months. Markedly, the costs were more than four times higher than expected, reaching 288 million pesetas.

Finally, on 24 September 1957, the Camp Nou was inaugurated. Moreover, dignitaries of the Franco regime and of the city gathered in the presidential tribune. Overall, 90,000 people attended the opening ceremony in the stands.

max capacity

Suprisingly, the stadium’s capacity has varied greatly over the years, opening at 106,146, and growing to 121,401 for the 1982 FIFA World Cup. Notably, in May 1972, the Camp Nou hosted its first European final between Rangers and Dynamo Moscow.  Finally, electronic scoreboards were installed in 1975

Additionaly, the Camp Nou underwent another expansion in 1980, in anticipation of the World Cup.  Besides adding boxes, VIP lounges and a new press area , there was construction of the third tier.

That expansion of the stadium added 22,150 new seats. The standing grew to 49,670. As a result, he total stadium capacity rose to 121,401. Correspondingly, Barcelona’s record attendance was set on 5 March 1986 in the European Cup quarter-final against Juventus. There were 120,000 spectators, just 1,401 shy of the stadium’s capacity.

other uses

Pope John Paul II held mass for 120,00 people in 1982. Various pop stars and groups have played the stadium. Most notably were; Julio Iglesias, Bruce Springsteen, Michael Jackson and U2.

Interestingly, Camp Nou has also hosted both codes of Rugby. French Top 14 held their finals there in 2016 and the British SuperLeague held their Magic Weekend, featuring a game between the Catalans Dragons and Wigan Warriors in 2019.

Spotify Camp Nou

Finally, this latest iteration of the famous stadium should be fully open in 2026 and have a maximum capacity of 105,00 people.

Basically, the new construction area is approximately 220 thousand square meters. 

The top 3rd tier of the existing stands will be completely demolished and rebuilt. The top of the stands will be covered with a completely new roof.

The approximate roof area is 45 thousand square meters. Photovoltaic panels will be placed on the roof. Bas, OverallBesi