One of Europe’s best looking stadiums is actually located in the north of Portugal. The Estádio Municipal de Braga is just a 15 minutes walk away from the city center of Braga and definitely worth a visit. Unofficially known as Estádio AXA since 2007, this remarkable stadium was constructed as a key location for the Euro 2004 Championships and has since captured the attention of the world with its unique combination of nature and design.
Portuguese architect Eduardo Souto de Moura, the mastermind behind this impressive design, has seen his work appreciated all over the world. With its two opposing stands rising directly from the rocky face, the stadium perfectly combines structure and nature. The two stands, build from the very stone that surrounds them, are bound together by steel strings which creates a harmonious balance between the organic elements and the elements of the stadium.
As 2023 was the first time soccer club SC Braga qualified for the UEFA Champions League, we had the great opportunity to watch the soccer match of SC Braga vs. Real Madrid in this stadium. Although the parking situation around the stadium is more than a chaos, the view from the outside as well as inside is spectacular. Even if we had seats nearly at the roof, we had a great view on the pitch and the stone walls in the stadium. However, we more than recommend to arrive by public transportation or to park the car in the city center of Braga and walk to the stadium (this will save a lot of time and nerves).
Everyone who likes soccer and has the opportunity to visit this stadium, will be impressed by this unique place in Braga. Moreover, the club also offers guided tours, where you can have a look inside the whole stadium and take some great photos. This is a good opportunity to have a look inside the stadium apart from the matches from of Braga.
The journey of SC Braga to the UEFA Champions League brought the world’s eyes to this remarkable European soccer stadium. The stadium which was once a vision in the mind of Eduardo Souto de Moura, now stands as a proud symbol of Braga’s cultural and sporting heritage.
