Description
Feyenoord Stadium, also known as "De Kuip" (the bowl), is a famous soccer stadium in the city of Rotterdam, Netherlands. It is the home arena of the local soccer club Feyenoord.
The construction of the Feyenoord stadium began in 1937. Its name "De Kuip" was given because of the unusual shape of the structure. The initial capacity of the stadium was 64 thousand people. The architects aimed to create a completely unique stadium. They wanted to have two free-hanging tiers without obstacles blocking the view. When creating the stadium, Feyenoord were inspired by venues such as Highbury Stadium (with west and east stands built in two tiers) and Yankee Stadium in New York. The use of glass in the design of the stadium creates a sense of spaciousness.
In 1949, the capacity of Feyenoord Stadium was increased to 69 thousand spectators. However, after a major reconstruction in 1994, the capacity of the stadium was reduced to 51117 people. In 1999, the Feyenoord stadium underwent renovation and interior works in connection with its use for the UEFA Euro 2000 tournament, while the number of spectators remained the same.
In addition, the Feyenoord stadium is actively used for concerts. Such celebrities as Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, David Bowie, Michael Jackson, the Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd and many others have performed here.