Saturday, 5 Oct 2024

Georgios Karaiskakis: A Historic Stadium in Greece

The Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium, also known as The Karaiskakis Stadium, is a prominent sports venue with a rich history in Greece. Named after the hero of the Greek War of Independence, Field Marshal Georgios Karaiskakis, this stadium has witnessed significant sporting events over the years. Let’s delve into the fascinating story of this iconic stadium and explore the teams that call it home.

A Brief History

The original Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium was built as a velodrome for the 1896 Summer Olympics. However, it wasn’t until Olympiacos, one of Greece’s premier football clubs, moved in 1925 that it became a football hotspot. In 2004, the stadium underwent extensive renovations for the Summer Olympics held in that year.

Home to Olympiacos and the Greek National Team

Since its reopening in 2004, the Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium has become the permanent home of the Greece national team. Previously, the national team frequently changed venues. This stadium has also been the proud host of Olympiacos matches, a team that has achieved remarkable success in Greek football.

Stadium Stats

  • Year Opened: 2004
  • Capacity: 32,115
  • Average Attendance: 23,248
  • Record Attendance: 42,415 (Olympiacos vs AEK Athens in 1965)
  • Pitch Size: 105 x 68 meters
  • Nickname: Naos
  • Former Name: Neo Phaliron Velodrome
  • Owner: Hellenic Olympic Committee

Georgios Karaiskakis Photos

Karaiskakis Stadium
Karaiskakis Stadium

Seating Plan and Where to Sit

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The Karaiskakis Stadium offers a bowl-style layout, featuring seating that extends around the entire ground. Here’s a glimpse into the different stands within the stadium:

  • The North Stand: Located behind the northern goal, this stand is where you’ll find Olympiacos’ most passionate supporters. The seats bear the number ‘7’ as a tribute to the fans who lost their lives in the tragic Gate 7 incident in 1981.
  • The South Stand: Positioned at the opposite end of the ground, this stand is often designated for away fans.
  • The West Stand: Dominated by executive boxes, this stand serves as the main hub of the stadium, housing changing rooms, dugouts, and the players’ tunnel.
  • The East Stand: This largest section of seating stretches along the edge of the pitch, proudly displaying the words “Olympiacos FC” with white seats amidst the red ones.

Ticket Information

Greece National Team

Ticket prices for Greece national team games are determined by the Hellenic Football Federation or the governing bodies such as UEFA or FIFA, depending on the competition. Visit the HFF’s website or UEFA/FIFA’s official platforms for ticket purchasing information.

Olympiacos

Ticket prices for Olympiacos matches may vary due to the economic climate in Greece. You can purchase tickets from the stadium’s ticket office, online through the club’s website, or by phone. Automated machines for ticket collection are also available at the stadium.

Getting to Georgios Karaiskakis

If you’re planning a visit to Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium, here are some transportation options:

  • Train: Unfortunately, getting a train directly to Piraeus or Athens from England is quite challenging. Athens Train Station is about six miles from the stadium, and you can catch an overground train to Piraeus, with Poplar being the most convenient stop. The Metro is another option, with Faliro on the Green Line serving as the nearest stop.
  • Bus: Bus numbers 040, 101, 130, and X95 stop in close proximity to the stadium.
  • Car: Driving in Greece can be an adventure. The stadium is near the city’s port area, not far from the E75 and the 56.
  • By Air: Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos, approximately forty miles from Piraeus, is the most convenient airport to fly into.
  • Taxi: A taxi ride from the city center to the stadium takes around fifteen minutes and costs a reasonable fare.
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Facilities, Hospitality, and More

The Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium offers excellent views from every seat, with a range of amenities available in the concourses, including food and beverage options. Additionally:

  • Hospitality: The stadium boasts forty VIP suites, two of which can accommodate up to twenty people each. The remaining suites can hold between ten and eighteen guests, with the Presidential Suite providing a luxurious experience. The stadium also features a restaurant called Vammos, offering a delightful dining experience with a great view of the pitch.
  • Private Hire: While specific information about private events at the stadium isn’t readily available, you can contact the club for further details.
  • Stadium Tours & Museum: As of now, the club does not offer stadium tours. However, the museum, opened in 2006, showcases an extensive collection of club memorabilia. It also hosts seminars and lectures periodically, providing an immersive experience for fans.

FAQs

Q: Are stadium tours available at Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium?
A: No, the club does not currently offer stadium tours.

Q: Can I visit the museum at Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium?
A: Yes, the museum is open to visitors on Tuesdays to Thursdays from 10am to 6pm. On Fridays, it remains open until 10pm, and on non-match day weekends, it is open from 11am to 3pm.

Conclusion

The Georgios Karaiskakis Stadium stands as a symbol of Greek football history, serving as the home ground for Olympiacos and the national team. With its rich heritage and notable matches, this stadium continues to be a hub of excitement and passion for football fans. Plan your visit to experience the thrill of live football in this iconic Greek venue.

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