Last update 18 February, 2025 by Alberto Llopis
San Mames, The original stadium, popularly known as “Cathedral” of football, He witnessed almost a century of history and passion at the Athletic Club in Bilbao.
This emblematic stadium, full of traditions and emotions, The doors definitely closed the 5 June 2013, Marking the end of an era that had captivated generations of fans and turning the old ‘cathedral’ in one of Spanish stadiums already missing.
Hoy, We remember with nostalgia and admiration each of its historical moments, From the last official goal in First to the traditions that are still maintained in the New San Mamés.
The last day at old San Mamés
The closure of the old cathedral was an event that generated a mixture of feelings in Athletic's followers. The last official goal played in the First Division in this mythical enclosure was the work of Juanlu, who scored in the victory of Levante in an unforgettable match.
Shortly after, In a clash that faced the subsidiaries of both teams in promoting promotion to second, Roger Martí, Lift striker B, He was in charge of marking the last official goal in that context.
Although not official, Another memorable goal was Alain Arroyo, Athletic partner and Mirandés player, who opened the scoring in the friendly farewell that faced the Basque team. Besides, Fernando Llorente had the distinction of being the last Athletic player to score in San Mamés before his closure.
The beginnings and evolution of San Mamés
inaugurated 21 of August of 1913 on land belonging to a homonymous asylum, Old San Mamés was built with a cost of 89.000 pesetas. In his early years, The stadium had a modest capacity of 3.500 spectators, figure that was growing over the decades. Over time, progressively expanded until almost reaching 50.000 seating. In 1997, In a modernization process, security fences were eliminated and reduced 10.000 standing locations, leaving a final capacity close to 40.000 spectators.
The first game held in this mythical stadium was between Athletic Club and Real Unión de Irún, And the first goal that was scored on the grass was the work of the historic Pichichi. Over time, A tradition was established in which visiting teams, In his first game in the old cathedral, They paid tribute to the bust of Pichichi, depositing a bouquet of flowers in respect. This custom, that linked players and fans, reflected the deep connection of the club with its history and identity.
Athletic philosophy and permanence in first
El Athletic Club, Together with Barcelona and Real Madrid, It is one of the few clubs that have played all the editions of the First Division, without ever descending. This permanence in the highest category is a testimony of the spirit and the dedication of “Lions”, And San Mamés was the scenario where innumerable football gestas were forged that defined the essence of the club. For almost 100 years, The stadium was home to intense emotions, of memorable victories and, of course, of the unmatched atmosphere created by its audience.
THE NEW SAN MAMÉS: A jump to the future
With the closure of old San Mamés in 2013, an era ended, But not the dream. instead, He was erected Nuevo San Mamés, a modern and functional stage that has inherited the spirit and tradition of the previous. inaugurated 16 September 2013, This enclosure offers latest generation facilities, combining the tradition of Athletic Club with the needs of contemporary football.
Jose Maria Luis Marquez | Dreamstime.com
The new stadium not only seeks to preserve the history of the club, but also to offer a unique experience to fans. With modern accesses, VIP areas, and an infrastructure that allows better visibility in each party, The new San Mamés has positioned itself as one of the most emblematic stages in Europe. Besides, The “White Horse Bridge” In memory of the famous Billie horse, whose image was associated with the old stadium thanks to the confusion of black and white images.
San Mamés has been much more than a simple stadium. Its impact has transcended football borders, becoming a symbol of cultural identity and a meeting point for thousands of fans. Each match played in its stands was a ritual that linked generations, and the stories and traditions that emerged in this enclosure have influenced the way football in Spain and the world is lived.
The closure of old San Mamés marked the end of a golden chapter in the history of Spanish football, But he also opened the door to new ways to enjoy the sport. Hoy, The new San Mamés remains the heart of Athletic Club, a place where unforgettable moments that are remembered and celebrated by all are still being created.
The influence of San Mamés on the identity of Athletic Club
Athletic Club has always been synonymous with tradition and pride, And San Mamés has been the perfect scenario to capture those values. Every corner of the stadium, From his old stands to the imposing arch, It tells stories of passion and delivery. Fans continue to honor traditions, either through the tribute to Pichichi or remembering iconic moments that were lived in each party.
Athletic's fans are known for his good taste and his ability to enjoy football in its purest state. Visitors who play for the first time in the old cathedral used to pay tribute to the bust of Pichichi, A sample of respect that linked players and followers in a football and tradition ritual. This sense of belonging and the emotional connection with the stadium make San Mamés, both the old and the new, be living monuments of Athletic's history.
The best images of old San Mamés:
