Estadio El Campín, officially known as Estadio Nemesio Camacho, is a sports icon in Bogotá. Inaugurated in 1938, this venue has not only witnessed great moments in Colombian football but has also hosted important cultural and social events.
Origins and Construction
The origins of Estadio El Campín trace back to an initiative by the then-mayor of Bogotá, Jorge Eliécer Gaitán, in 1934. The idea emerged as part of the commemoration of the 400th anniversary of the city’s founding and to host the 1938 Bolivarian Games. The land for its construction was donated by the family of Nemesio Camacho, a businessman, and was located in an area known for its vast green spaces, often used for campin.
The construction of the stadium was an ambitious project. The design was overseen by engineer Luis Eduardo Mora, who drew inspiration from European stadium styles. Originally, Estadio El Campín had a capacity of 23,500 spectators and nine stands. Its official inauguration took place on August 10, 1938, marking a milestone in the city’s sports infrastructure. The first official event was a match between the national teams of Colombia and Ecuador, held as part of the Bolivarian Games.
Key Sporting Events
El Campín has been the stage for numerous significant sporting and political events throughout its history. Since its inauguration, the stadium became the venue for important football matches, both national and international. One of the first major events was the opening match of the 1938 Bolivarian Games, where Colombia faced Ecuador. This event marked the beginning of a long tradition of sports events at the stadium.
During the “El Dorado” era of Colombian football, El Campín witnessed the arrival of legendary players like Alfredo Di Stéfano, who played for Millonarios, one of Bogotá’s most representative teams. In 1948, the stadium hosted the first professional football championship in Colombia, solidifying its place as the epicenter of football in the country.
Transformations and Modernizations
Over the years, Estadio El Campín has undergone several modernizations to meet growing needs and enhance the spectator experience. Between 1965 and 1969, the stadium was renovated to increase its capacity and add lighting for night games. This renovation included the construction of new stands and the installation of an athletics track.
In 2000, El Campín was once again renovated to modernize its facilities and increase its capacity to 45,000 spectators. This modernization included the construction of new stands, improvements to access points, and the implementation of advanced technology in the facilities.
The most recent significant renovation occurred in 2011, in preparation for the FIFA U-20 World Cup. During this remodel, press facilities were upgraded, locker rooms were renovated, and modern security systems were implemented. These transformations have allowed Estadio El Campín to remain one of Colombia’s premier sports venues, capable of hosting high-level events and offering a first-class experience to attendees.
Today, Estadio El Campín is home to two of the city’s iconic teams: Santa Fe and Millonarios. Attending one of their matches and feeling the passion of Colombian football enhances the experience of being at El Campín, a place that will continue to be vital for Bogotá.
