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Estadio | Spain’s Most Iconic Football Stadiums

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In Spain, football is more than just a sport – it’s a way of life. The country boasts a rich footballing culture, and its stadiums serve as hallowed grounds where passion and history collide. From the grandeur of Barcelona’s Camp Nou to the intimate charm of Cadiz’s Estadio Ramón de Carranza, each venue tells a story of devotion, triumph, and enduring legacy.

Camp Nou © Danny Last
FC Barcelona’s iconic Camp Nou © Danny Last
Estadio Ramón de Carranza © Danny Last
Cádiz CF colour and passion, Estadio Ramón de Carranza © Danny Last

Estadio is a photographic series by Danny Last on contemporary Spanish football culture and stadia. The limited edition A5 photo zine contains 58 beautifully shot colour photographs across 56 pages. Last’s photographic journey explores some of the most iconic football stadiums in Spain, along with hidden gems, where the beautiful game comes alive in all its glory.

Estadio | Danny Last - Lower Block photo zine
© Danny Last | Lower Block

“Each picture is a gorgeous portrait of a place and its people, these are photos you feel.”

Sid Lowe – Spanish Football Expert.
Mestalla, Valencia
Mestalla, Valencia. © Danny Last
Sevilla FC, Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán
Sevilla FC, Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán © Danny Last

All the colour and the culture that goes hand in hand with Spanish football is laid bare in Danny Last’s compelling set of pictures.

Compiled over a decade, his travels took in Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid, Barcelona, Espanyol, Athletic Club, Real Sociedad, Real Zaragoza, Valencia, Sevilla and Real Betis.

“If you want thousands of away fans, cities daubed with club murals, pyro shows and a raucous atmosphere then you may want to head elsewhere in Europe,” says Last.

“But if you fancy something a bit different; incredible food that doesn’t break the bank, friendly locals, football tat, sunshine and a bloody good day out, then why not give Spain a go.

“Of course you’ll probably want to visit Barcelona and Real Madrid first but you’ll get a better atmosphere, day out and value for money at any of these: Valencia, Rayo Vallecano, Sporting Gijón, Real Oviedo, Real Betis, Sevilla, Real Zaragoza, Cádiz, Osasuna, Athletic Club and Real Sociedad.

“I think my favourite photo from this project is the puddle reflection shot outside Real Betis’ Estadio Benito Villamarin. Their ground might not be for everyone, with its brutalist architecture, but I love it. 

Estadio Benito Villamarín © Danny Last
Estadio Benito Villamarín © Danny Last

“For this shot it had rained in Sevilla for the first time in almost a year so it’s a rare opportunity to see such a photo in that magnificent city. I was also pleased because soon the stadium is set for a complete modern makeover.”

The Spanish football scene, and everything that surrounds it, contributes to a genuine love affair for Last. He wed his Spanish wife, in Spain, in 2005, and has taken everything to heart when it comes to his wife’s home country.

“These photos span the last ten years but I’ve been going to matches in Spain since 1999,” he said.

“The first match I attended there was the Madrid derby back when the Santiago Bernabéu still had terracing. That Real Madrid team boasted the likes of Davor Šuker, Raúl, Guti, Clarence Seedorf and Roberto Carlos. 

“There was a ticker-tape reception that got set on fire and when the local fire brigade came to extinguish the flames they got pelted with missiles. That was the first time I’d heard fire-crackers at a match too and I nearly leapt out of my seat into Gran Vía with the shock.

“If your chosen match is on a Sunday then start at the nearest flea market because it’s there you’ll find your football tat. Not your expensive generic megastore items but España 82 World Cup goodies, old football pin badges for a couple of Euros, Real Betis antique radios, Atletico de Madrid watches from the 80s, Panini stickers from every year imaginable, Real Zaragoza slippers. You get the idea. Don’t be put off by stamp and coin markets either because that’s also Spanish secret code for football tat.”

A self-confessed foodie, Last’s football travels are never without tucking into the local cuisine. “Even if you only have a passing interest in food then can’t fail to be wowed by Spain’s best invention – the Menú del día,” he says. “Step away from the main square and tuck into pretty much any side street and look for the board outside chalked up and let your dreams come true. For just over 10 Euros you get three courses plus a bottle of wine – I don’t think I’ve ever walked away disappointed.” 

And it’s not about the pre-match pint, but a a few Cañas with the locals. “Take one, enjoy your free tapa and move on to the next bar,” exudes Last. 

“Before the match tick off as many bars around the stadium as possible as these are often festooned with bits of club memorabilia and it’s here you’ll meet the heartbeat of the club’s fanbase.”

Finally, for a ‘muy auténtico’ experience at the football, Last recommends joining the local supporters for some pitch side grub. “If you really want to blend into your surroundings in the stadium then pack a bocadillo wrapped in foil to eat at half time. Alternatively, around the stadium you’ll see trestle tables brimming with pipas. Tricky to master the art of cracking the shell to find the seed and a nightmare for the ground staff to clear up afterwards but you’ve not been to a game in Spain until you’ve tried them.”  

Camp Nou (Barcelona): As the largest football stadium in Spain and Europe, Camp Nou stands as a symbol of FC Barcelona’s storied history and global stature. With a capacity exceeding 99,000, this colossal venue is a fortress of Catalan pride, where the echoes of past glories mingle with the roars of passionate supporters. From Lionel Messi’s magical moments to historic European triumphs, Camp Nou is a cathedral of football that commands reverence and awe.

Camp Nou © Danny Last
Camp Nou © Danny Last

READ NOW – THE HEARTBEAT OF SPANISH FOOTBALL CULTURE.

Camp Nou © Danny Last
Camp Nou © Danny Last
Barcelona tattoo, Camp Nou
© Danny Last

Santiago Bernabéu (Madrid): Home to Real Madrid, the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium is synonymous with excellence, glamour, and relentless ambition. With a capacity of over 81,000, this iconic venue has witnessed the triumphs of footballing legends and the glory of countless La Liga titles and European Cup victories. From the electrifying atmosphere of El Clásico to the euphoria of Champions League nights, the Bernabéu is a shrine to the enduring legacy of the world’s most successful football club.

Santiago Bernabéu © Danny Last
Santiago Bernabéu © Danny Last
Santiago Bernabéu © Danny Last
Santiago Bernabéu © Danny Last

Wanda Metropolitano (Madrid): Inaugurated in 2017, the Wanda Metropolitano represents the modern face of Spanish football stadiums. Home to Atlético Madrid, this state-of-the-art venue boasts a capacity of over 68,000 and has quickly established itself as a fortress of resilience and determination. From thrilling encounters in La Liga to historic triumphs in European competitions, the Wanda Metropolitano embodies the unwavering spirit of Atleti’s fiercely loyal fanbase.

Atletico Madrid. Wanda Metropolitano © Danny Last
Wanda Metropolitano © Danny Last
Atletico Madrid. Wanda Metropolitano © Danny Last
© Danny Last
Wanda Metropolitano © Danny Last
Wanda Metropolitano © Danny Last
The Vicente Calderón Stadium, home stadium of Atlético Madrid from its completion in 1966 to 2017
The Vicente Calderón Stadium, home stadium of Atlético Madrid from 1966 to 2017. © Danny Last
Estadio La Romareda, Real Zaragoza
Estadio La Romareda, Real Zaragoza. © Danny Last
Estadio La Romareda, Real Zaragoza
Estadio La Romareda, Real Zaragoza. © Danny Last

Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán (Seville): Nestled in the heart of Andalusia, the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium is the iconic home of Sevilla FC. With a capacity of over 43,000 spectators, this atmospheric venue is renowned for its fervent support and intimidating atmosphere on matchdays. From unforgettable derby clashes to historic Europa League triumphs, the Sánchez-Pizjuán has been witness to the highs and lows of Sevilla’s storied footballing journey.

Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán © Danny Last
Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán © Danny Last
Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán © Danny Last
Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán © Danny Last

Mestalla (Valencia): As the oldest football stadium in Spain still in use, Mestalla holds a special place in the hearts of Valencia CF supporters. With its steep stands and intimate atmosphere, this iconic venue has seen its fair share of drama and glory over the years. From domestic league titles to European adventures, Mestalla continues to be a bastion of Valencia’s enduring footballing tradition, where every match is infused with passion and pride.

Mestalla © Danny Last
Mestalla © Danny Last
Mestalla © Danny Last
Mestalla © Danny Last

CHECK IT OUT – ESTADIO BY DANNY LAST | 56 PAGES OF STUNNING SPANISH FOOTBALL STADIA

Estadio Reino de León, Cultural Leonesa
Estadio Reino de León, Cultural Leonesa. © Danny Last
Estadio Reino de León, Cultural Leonesa
© Danny Last

Estadio Benito Villamarín (Seville): Home to Real Betis Balompié, the Estadio Benito Villamarín is a vibrant and storied venue nestled in the heart of Seville. With a seating capacity of over 60,000, this stadium boasts a unique atmosphere characterized by the passionate support of Betis fans, who create an electric atmosphere on matchdays. From thrilling derby clashes against Sevilla to memorable European nights, the Benito Villamarín has been witness to the highs and lows of Betis’ rich footballing history.

Estadio Benito Villamarín © Danny Last
Estadio Benito Villamarín © Danny Last
Estadio Benito Villamarín © Danny Last
Estadio Benito Villamarín © Danny Last
Estadio Benito Villamarín © Danny Last
Estadio Benito Villamarín © Danny Last
Estadio Benito Villamarín © Danny Last
Estadio Benito Villamarín © Danny Last

Estadio Ramón de Carranza (Cadiz): Situated in the picturesque coastal city of Cadiz, the Estadio Ramón de Carranza is the beloved home of Cadiz CF. With a capacity of over 20,000 spectators, this charming stadium exudes a sense of tradition and community spirit that is emblematic of Cadiz’s unique footballing culture. From historic promotions to thrilling victories over top-flight opponents, the Ramón de Carranza holds a special place in the hearts of Cadiz fans, who flock to the stadium to cheer on their beloved team with unwavering passion.

Estadio Ramón de Carranza © Danny Last
Estadio Ramón de Carranza © Danny Last
Estadio Ramón de Carranza © Danny Last
Estadio Ramón de Carranza © Danny Last

Estadio de Vallecas, Rayo Vallenco

Estadio de Vallecas, Rayo Vallecano. © Danny Last
Estadio de Vallecas, Rayo Vallecano. © Danny Last
Rayo Vallecano. © Danny Last
Rayo Vallecano. © Danny Last

Estadi Ciutat de València (Valencia): Home to Levante UD, the Estadi Ciutat de València is a bustling and atmospheric stadium located in the vibrant city of Valencia. With a capacity of over 26,000 spectators, this historic venue provides an intimate setting for fans to experience the thrill of top-flight football. From dramatic relegation battles to historic victories over Spanish giants, the Ciutat de València has been witness to the rollercoaster journey of Levante UD, serving as a beacon of hope and pride for the club’s devoted supporters.

Estadi Ciutat de València (Valencia): Home to Levante UD
Levante fans outside Estadi Ciutat de València © Danny Last
Estadio Los Cármenes, Granada CF. © Danny Last
Estadio Los Cármenes, Granada CF. © Danny Last
Estadio de Anduva, CD Mirandés
Estadio de Anduva, CD Mirandés. © Danny Last
Estadio de Anduva, CD Mirandés
Estadio de Anduva, CD Mirandés. © Danny Last

Estadio San Mamés (Bilbao): Located in the Basque region of Spain, the Estadio San Mamés is the historic home of Athletic Club Bilbao. Renowned for its distinctive architecture and passionate supporters, this iconic stadium has played host to countless memorable moments in Athletic’s illustrious history. With its steep stands and close proximity to the pitch, San Mamés provides an intimate and intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams, making it one of the most formidable venues in La Liga.

San Mamés, Athletic Club, Bilbao
© Alex Amorós
San Mamés, Athletic Club.
San Mamés, Athletic Club. @ Matt Barnes
Estadi Nova Creu Alta, CE Sabadell FC
Estadi Nova Creu Alta, CE Sabadell FC. © Danny Last
Estadi Montilivi, Girona FC
Estadi Montilivi, Girona FC. © Danny Last
Estadi Cornellà-El Prat, RCD Espanyol de Barcelona
Estadi Cornellà-El Prat, RCD Espanyol de Barcelona. © Danny Last
Sporting Gijón away fans at Estadio Fernando Torres, CF Fuenlabrada
Sporting Gijón away fans at Estadio Fernando Torres, CF Fuenlabrada. © Danny Last
Real Oviedo away fans at Estadio el Plantío, Burgos CF
Real Oviedo away fans at Estadio el Plantío, Burgos CF. © Danny Last
Estadio Carlos Tartiere, Real Oviedo
Estadio Carlos Tartiere, Real Oviedo © Danny Last
Estadio Carlos Tartiere, Real Oviedo
Estadio Carlos Tartiere, Real Oviedo. © Danny Last
Estadio Carlos Tartiere, Real Oviedo
Estadio Carlos Tartiere, Real Oviedo. © Danny Last

Spain’s iconic football stadiums are not just architectural marvels; they are living monuments to the enduring passion and heritage of Spanish football. From the grandeur of Camp Nou to the intimacy of Estadio San Mamés, each venue offers a unique experience that captures the essence of the beautiful game in all its glory. As fans flock to these cathedrals of football to cheer on their beloved teams, they become part of a timeless tradition that transcends borders and unites communities in celebration of the sport they love.

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