Estadio La Rosaleda: The history of football in Málaga
Estadio La Rosaleda, located at: P.º Martiricos, s/n, Palma-Palmilla, 29011 Málaga, officially inaugurated on September 14, 1941, is one of the most iconic sporting venues in Andalusia. Situated in Málaga, it is the home stadium of Málaga CF, the club that has leased it since its opening. Construction began in 1936, but the Spanish Civil War delayed the work, with the first match finally taking place on April 13, 1941. The stadium has gradually evolved, growing from an initial capacity of approximately 8,000 seats to its modern capacity of 30,044 spectators, making it the 18th largest stadium in Spain and the 4th largest in Andalusia.
La Rosaleda has hosted numerous major events, including three matches of the 1982 World Cup, games of the Spanish national team, and several international cup matches such as the 2009 Peace Cup. The stadium has also hosted European competitions, such as the UEFA Cup and the Intertoto Cup. This rich sporting heritage gives La Rosaleda a special aura among Spanish football fans.
With several successive renovations, notably in 1982, 2000, and 2010, Estadio La Rosaleda has adapted to modern standards without losing its historical essence. Today, the stadium boasts a 105m x 68m natural grass pitch, renovated infrastructure, VIP areas, and improved accessibility for all visitors. The stadium gates have been named in homage to club legends such as Migueli, Viberti, and Abdullah Ben Barek, reinforcing the connection between this venue and the history of Málaga CF.
Located on the Paseo de Martiricos, less than two kilometers from the historic center of Málaga, La Rosaleda enjoys an ideal location. The stadium is easily accessible on foot, by car, or by bus (lines 2, 17, and 26 in particular), making it convenient for both local and visiting fans.
La Rosaleda is poised to play an even more significant role in the coming years. Although initially slated to host the 2030 World Cup, this bid was withdrawn in 2025. Nevertheless, the infrastructure continues to improve and remains a must-see for football fans, offering guided tours, a museum dedicated to Málaga CF, and a unique atmosphere that attracts thousands of enthusiasts every year.
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