Merkur Spiel-Arena, formerly known as Esprit Arena and LTU Arena, is a multi-purpose stadium located in Düsseldorf, Germany. The stadium is primarily used for football matches and is home to Fortuna Düsseldorf. It is also used for concerts, exhibitions, and other events.
The stadium was built between 2002 and 2004 and has a retractable roof, allowing for events to be held in any weather condition. With a capacity of over 54,000 seats, it is one of the largest stadiums in Germany. The stadium is located in the northern part of Düsseldorf, near the Düsseldorf International Airport, making it easily accessible for visitors.
Key Takeaways
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- Merkur Spiel-Arena is a multi-purpose stadium primarily used for football matches and concerts.
- The stadium has a retractable roof and a capacity of over 54,000 seats.
- It is located in the northern part of Düsseldorf, near the airport, making it easily accessible for visitors.
History
Construction
Merkur Spiel-Arena, previously known as ESPRIT arena, is a retractable roof football stadium in Düsseldorf, Germany. The stadium was built between 2002 and 2004 as a replacement for the Rheinstadion. The construction of the stadium was a joint venture between the city of Düsseldorf and the construction company Hochtief. The total project costs, including surrounding infrastructure, amounted to €240 million.
The stadium has a capacity of up to 54,600 spectators at soccer games and up to 66,000 fans at concerts. The stadium has a retractable roof that can be closed in 30 minutes. The stadium’s playing field is made of natural grass and has a size of 105 meters by 68 meters.
Inauguration
The stadium was inaugurated on September 18, 2004, with a friendly match between Fortuna Düsseldorf and the Netherlands national team. The Netherlands won the match 2-0. The first official match at the stadium was a Bundesliga match between Fortuna Düsseldorf and Schalke 04 on October 9, 2004. The match ended in a 1-1 draw.
Renovations
In 2010, the stadium underwent renovations to convert a seating area into standing terraces, increasing the stadium’s capacity to 54,600. In 2011, the stadium was one of the playing venues for the Eurovision Song Contest. During the event, the stadium was referred to as the Düsseldorf Arena.
In 2018, the stadium’s name was changed from ESPRIT arena to Merkur Spiel-Arena after the German gaming and gambling company Merkur acquired the naming rights.
Overall, Merkur Spiel-Arena has become an iconic landmark in Düsseldorf and has hosted numerous high-profile events, including concerts, football matches, and other sporting events.
Design and Capacity
Architecture
Merkur Spiel-Arena is a modern, multi-purpose stadium located in Düsseldorf, Germany. The stadium was designed by Gerkan, Marg and Partners, a renowned German architectural firm. The stadium features a unique, futuristic design that incorporates a retractable roof, allowing for events to be held in all weather conditions. The stadium also has a distinctive lighting system that can be customized to suit different events, making it a popular venue for concerts and other cultural events.
Seating
Merkur Spiel-Arena has a seating capacity of 54,600, making it one of the largest stadiums in Germany. The stadium offers a variety of seating options, including VIP boxes, business seats, and standard seating. The stadium’s seating is arranged in a bowl shape, ensuring that all seats have a clear view of the pitch. The stadium also has standing areas for fans who prefer to stand during matches.
Sustainability Features
Merkur Spiel-Arena is a sustainable stadium that incorporates a variety of eco-friendly features. The stadium has a rainwater harvesting system that collects rainwater and uses it to irrigate the pitch. The stadium also has a solar panel system that generates renewable energy, reducing the stadium’s carbon footprint. Additionally, the stadium has a waste management system that recycles waste and reduces the amount of waste that goes to landfill.
Overall, Merkur Spiel-Arena is a state-of-the-art stadium that combines modern design with sustainability features. The stadium’s unique architecture, seating options, and eco-friendly features make it a popular venue for a variety of events.
Events
The Merkur Spiel-Arena is a versatile venue that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. From sports to concerts and other events, there is always something happening at the arena.
Sports
The arena is primarily known for hosting football matches. It is the home stadium of Fortuna Düsseldorf, a German football club. The stadium has a seating capacity of 54,600, making it one of the largest football stadiums in Germany. In addition to football, the arena has also hosted other sports events such as boxing, wrestling, and basketball.
Concerts
The Merkur Spiel-Arena is also a popular venue for concerts. Many world-famous artists have performed at the arena, including Coldplay, Ed Sheeran, and Beyoncé. The arena has a state-of-the-art sound system and lighting rig, making it an ideal location for large-scale concerts.
Other Events
In addition to sports and concerts, the Merkur Spiel-Arena hosts a variety of other events throughout the year. These include trade shows, exhibitions, and conferences. The arena has multiple event spaces, including a conference center and exhibition halls, making it a versatile venue for a wide range of events.
Overall, the Merkur Spiel-Arena is a world-class venue that attracts a diverse range of events. Whether you are a sports fan, music lover, or attending a trade show, the arena has something to offer.
Facilities
The Merkur Spiel-Arena offers a range of facilities for visitors to enjoy. In addition to its state-of-the-art retractable roof, the stadium boasts VIP areas and conference rooms.
VIP Areas
The VIP areas at the Merkur Spiel-Arena provide a luxurious experience for guests. These areas offer premium seating, access to exclusive lounges, and upscale food and beverage options. VIP guests can also enjoy dedicated parking and priority entry into the stadium.
Conference Rooms
The Merkur Spiel-Arena also has conference rooms available for rent. These rooms are equipped with modern technology and can accommodate a range of events, from business meetings to large-scale conferences. The stadium’s central location and ample parking make it a convenient choice for event planners.
Overall, the Merkur Spiel-Arena’s facilities provide a comfortable and convenient experience for visitors. Whether attending a sporting event or hosting a business meeting, guests can enjoy top-notch amenities and services.
Location and Transportation
Access
Merkur Spiel-Arena is located in the northern part of Düsseldorf, Germany, near the Rhine River. The stadium is easily accessible by car and public transport. The arena is located near the A44 and A52 highways, making it easy to reach from nearby cities and towns. Parking is available on-site, but it can be limited during busy events.
Public Transport
To make your stay with us as easy as possible, we recommend that you travel by public transport. The stadium is well-served by the local public transport network. Visitors can take the U78 line directly to MERKUR SPIEL-ARENA/Messe Nord from Düsseldorf Central Station, which is the main railway station in the city. For many events, your ticket is also a valid ticket for public transport in the VRR area and DB, 2nd class. The corresponding logo is noted on the tickets. Visitors can also take buses and trams to the stadium from various locations in the city.
Overall, Merkur Spiel-Arena is a well-connected stadium with good access to public transport and major highways. Visitors are encouraged to plan their journey in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What events are scheduled at the Merkur Spiel-Arena?
Merkur Spiel-Arena hosts a variety of events, including football games, concerts, and other live performances. Visitors can check the official Merkur Spiel-Arena website to see the upcoming schedule of events.
How can I find the seating view for a specific seat at Merkur Spiel-Arena?
To find the seating view for a specific seat at Merkur Spiel-Arena, visitors can use the interactive seating chart available on the official website. This tool allows visitors to view the arena from different angles and see the seating arrangements for different events.
Where can I purchase tickets for Merkur Spiel-Arena events?
Tickets for events at Merkur Spiel-Arena can be purchased online through the official website or through authorized ticketing partners. Visitors can also purchase tickets directly at the arena box office on event days.
Are there recommended hotels near the Merkur Spiel-Arena?
There are several hotels located near Merkur Spiel-Arena, including the Tulip Inn Düsseldorf Arena, the Mercure Hotel Düsseldorf Airport, and the Lindner Hotel Airport. Visitors can check the official Merkur Spiel-Arena website for a list of recommended hotels.
What are the best seating areas for concerts at the Merkur Spiel-Arena?
The best seating areas for concerts at Merkur Spiel-Arena may vary depending on personal preference and the specific event. However, visitors can generally expect good views from the lower and middle tiers of seating.
What transport options are available for reaching the Merkur Spiel-Arena?
Merkur Spiel-Arena is easily accessible by public transportation, with several bus and train lines serving the arena. Visitors can also drive to the arena and park in one of the designated parking areas. More information about transportation options can be found on the official Merkur Spiel-Arena website.
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