stadiums

A stadium is a large venue for sports and other events, typically featuring a playing field at the center surrounded by tiered seating. Stadiums are usually open-air or partially roofed, and differ from enclosed arenas. The concept traces back to ancient Greek and Roman stadiums and amphitheaters, but modern stadiums are designed to accommodate tens of thousands of spectators and to optimize sightlines, acoustics, and circulation. Many stadiums are purpose-built for a single sport, while others are multi-use facilities.

Design and facilities include seating bowls or tiers, concourses, restrooms, concessions, and often media suites and VIP boxes. Field surfaces vary by sport and can be natural grass, artificial turf, or hybrid systems. Roofs range from fully open to fully covered or retractable. Modern stadiums employ extensive lighting, large video displays, and advanced sound systems. Accessibility, safety, and crowd management are integral to their operation.

Uses and economics: The primary purpose is hosting sports events, but many stadiums also host concerts, political rallies, and ceremonies. They can be owned by municipalities, universities, or private groups, and revenues come from ticket sales, sponsorships, naming rights, and concessions, often supplemented by public funding for construction or renovations. Maintenance includes pitch care, structural inspections, and facility management. Stadiums can serve as cultural landmarks and influence local economies, and they frequently undergo renovations to extend capacity or update amenities.