Thursday, 19 Sep 2024

Estadio de la Ceramica: Villarreal

Estadio de la Ceramica, formerly known as Estadio El Madrigal, is a historic stadium located in Vila-real, Spain. It has been the home of Villarreal, one of the top football clubs in the country, since its formation in 1923. With its interesting history and unique features, Estadio de la Ceramica offers an exciting experience for football enthusiasts.

A Stadium with Rich History and Unique Features

The stadium was initially built to accommodate the newly formed Villarreal club, and it played its first game on June 17, 1923, against Castellón. Since then, the stadium has witnessed numerous memorable matches and significant moments in Villarreal’s journey.

Villarreal is affectionately known as El Submarino Amarillo, or The Yellow Submarine, due to their distinct all-yellow kit. To further emphasize this nickname, a statue of a yellow submarine was erected outside the stadium. The stadium’s capacity is just under 25,000, making it an intimate and vibrant venue for fans.

Estadio de la Ceramica Stats

  • Year Opened: 1923
  • Capacity: 23,500
  • Average Attendance: 16,040
  • Record Attendance: 24,450 (Villarreal v Barcelona, 2016)
  • Pitch Size: 105 x 68 meters
  • Nickname: Feudo Amarillo

The Seating Plan and Where to Sit

Unlike many modern stadiums, Estadio El Madrigal follows an “English Style” layout, with standalone sections running along the edge of the pitch. Here’s a brief overview of each stand:

  • Fondo Norte: Located at the North end of the stadium, this two-tiered stand is where away supporters often gather.
  • Preferncia: Situated to the East, this stand is mostly one section, with a small paddock-like area at the bottom.
  • Fondo Sur Cubierto: Directly opposite the North Stand, this single-tiered stand is divided into two sections and is known for its passionate fans.
  • Tribuna: The West Stand is the main stand, housing the players’ tunnel, dugouts, and executive boxes.
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Villarreal Ticket Prices and How to Get Them

Ticket prices for Villarreal games are announced approximately four weeks before each match, and they can vary based on the desired seating location. The club website provides an interactive seating plan for ticket selection, and options for purchasing tickets include the club’s ticket office, phone, ground, or club shop. Additionally, cash machines throughout the city offer tickets for purchase.

Getting to Estadio de la Ceramica

Vila-real is conveniently located on the East coast of Spain, offering easy access to the beach and nearby cities like Valencia. Several transportation options are available:

  • Train: Trains from Valencia to Vila-real take approximately one hour. From Vila-real Railway Station, it’s just a short walk to the stadium.
  • Bus: Various bus companies, such as Grupo HIFE, operate buses from Valencia to Vila-real.
  • Car: GPS navigation can provide precise directions to the stadium (Calle Blasco Ibáñez 2, 12540 Vila-real).
  • Air: The closest airport is Valencia’s Manises Airport, from which you can take a train or bus to Vila-real.

Facilities, Hospitality, and Private Hire

Estadio El Madrigal offers top-notch facilities, including food stalls and an impressive horchata tent with “typically Valencian” cuisine. The stadium also provides various hospitality options, including air-conditioned boxes with fantastic views of the pitch, lounges, and a restaurant. The Entrelíneas restaurant, located within the stadium, is available for private hire for events such as business dinners, presentations, and celebrations.

Stadium Tours & Museum

Visitors to Estadio El Madrigal can go on stadium tours that include exclusive access to areas typically off-limits, such as the changing rooms, players’ tunnel, and VIP sections. The tours also provide insights into the club’s training complex and administrative offices. For more information, contact the club directly.

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About Villarreal

Villarreal Club de Fútbol, S.A.D., commonly known as Villarreal CF, was founded in 1923 with the goal of promoting various sports, especially soccer. After spending many years in Spain’s lower leagues, the club gained promotion to La Liga in 1998. Villarreal’s highest league finish was second place in 2008. They have also achieved success in European competitions, winning the UEFA Intertoto Cup twice and reaching the UEFA Champions League semi-finals and UEFA Europa League semi-finals multiple times.

A Stadium with a Rich History and Exciting Future

Estadio El Madrigal, now Estadio de la Ceramica, has undergone several renovations throughout its lifespan to meet the standards of modern stadiums. Although there are no immediate plans for future developments, the stadium remains a symbol of Villarreal’s proud history. Whether you’re a devoted fan or simply a football enthusiast, a visit to Estadio de la Ceramica promises an unforgettable experience.