Mestalla – the heart of Valencia, the soul of Valencia CF

At first glance, Mestalla may seem just like a stadium – an impressive structure made of concrete, steel, and memories. But it only takes one match, one evening under the floodlights with the sound of 50,000 voices, to understand that Mestalla is much more than that. It is a temple of football, full of passion, history, and local spirit. For Valencia CF fans, it is an almost sacred place – a stadium that has not only witnessed great moments but has also co-created them.

A history that breathes from the stands

Mestalla Stadiumhttps://maps.app.goo.gl/UgpUQLHWaPcF2oQJ9was opened on May 20, 1923, making it one of the oldest stadiums in Spain. Over the years, it has witnessed transformations not only in sports but also in society. Its name comes from the nearby Acequia de Mestalla irrigation canal, which ran alongside the stands for many years. Originally, it could hold only 17,000 spectators, but subsequent expansions – especially those after the civil war and related to the 1982 World Cup – transformed the stadium into what it is today: a legend of sports architecture.

During the Spanish Civil War, the stadium was severely damaged, and during World War II, it even served as a military camp. However, these dramatic events did not break the spirit of Mestalla – on the contrary, they made it an even stronger symbol of resistance, unity, and struggle.

Why is Mestalla special?

In times when many stadiums resemble shopping centers more than sports arenas, Mestalla has retained its raw, classic character. The steep stands – some of the most vertical in Europe – make fans almost hang over the pitch, creating a unique atmosphere that can paralyze opponents. This is a place where you can feel football in your bones.

Mestalla is also a stadium full of contrasts – on one hand, full of raw energy, on the other – full of nostalgia and sentiment. Walking around its walls, you can come across numerous murals, photos, and memorabilia reminding of past legends – Mario Kempes, Gaizka Mendieta, or David Villa.

"Amunt Valencia!" – a cry that carries pride

If you ever find yourself at Mestalla during a match, you cannot miss the thunderous shout: "¡Amunt Valencia!" – it is more than a chant. It is a motto that means "Forward, Valencia!" and expresses not only faith in the team but also pride in the city, its traditions, and the identity of the region.

This expression comes from Valencian, a regional variant of the Catalan language, and has become an inseparable part of the club's culture. It is a chant that carries the history of entire generations of fans – from grandparents to grandchildren. It is also a tribute to the courage with which Valencia CF faces adversity – both on and off the pitch.

The bronze fan – a tribute to passion

One of the most moving stories associated with Mestalla is that of Vicente Navarro Aparicio – a devoted fan who attended almost every match of his beloved team for decades, even though... he was blind. After Vicente's death in 2017, the club decided to honor his memory in an absolutely unique way – a bronze statue depicting him in his characteristic glasses and scarf was placed in his favorite spot in the stands. He sits there to this day – a silent witness to the emotions, reminding everyone what true love for the club is.

Curva Mestalla – not just a sector, but a state of mind

At the stadium, you can also encounter another phenomenon: Curva Mestalla. This is the section of the most passionate fans, who are responsible for the majority of displays, songs, and... sometimes light dizziness among opponents. The very name "Curva Mestalla" commands respect among fans and causes slight panic among rivals.

With a wink, it is said that "Curva Mestalla is not a place – it is a diagnosis" and there is some truth to that. This is where songs are born, flares burn, and legends are forged. It is there that the heart of the stadium beats the strongest – regardless of the match result.

Valencia CF – pride that is regaining form

Valencia CF, although not always at the top in recent years, is showing excellent form in La Liga during the 2024/2025 season. The team, led by a young but charismatic coach and a group of talented academy graduates, is playing offensively again, with flair and pride. Mestalla has become a true fortress this season – the number of home defeats is among the lowest in the entire league.

Supported by a crowd of fans and with new energy on the pitch, Valencia aims for European cups – and who knows, perhaps it will strive for even more. As the fans sing: "Si se puede!"

Achievements that build the legend

It is impossible to talk about Valencia CF without mentioning its greatest successes: six-time champions of Spain, eight triumphs in the Copa del Rey, two Champions League finals (unfortunately lost, but with dignity), winning the UEFA Cup in 2004, and the European Super Cup in the same season. This is a club that has always been close to the top and deserves a return to greatness.

The Future: A New Stadium, New Hopes

For years, there have been discussions about a new venue – Nou Mestalla, which is set to accommodate over 60,000 spectators and become one of the most modern stadiums in Europe. Construction began in 2007, but due to economic crises, the project has been stuck in limbo.

Currently, thanks to the improvement in the club's financial situation, the project is moving forward again. The new stadium is expected to be completed by 2027, but the question of what will happen to the current Mestalla still raises emotions. Some talk about transforming it into a city park while preserving parts of the stands as a tribute to history. Others advocate for keeping it as a reserve team or academy stadium.

Whatever happens, one thing is certain – Mestalla will never be forgotten. It is not just a stadium. It is a legend that lives on.

It is worth experiencing Estadio Mestalla in person

This majestic stadium offers guided tours in Spanish and English. During the"Mestalla Forever Tour", you will visit the CF Valencia team locker room, sit on the substitutes' bench right by the pitch, hear fascinating stories, and see all the trophies. At the end, you can buy souvenirs at the official club store.

Amunt Valencia!

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