Sporting events and enormous concerts feature at what is one of the biggest stadiums in Spain.
Mingle with over 57,000 other spectators to feel the full effect of La Cartuja this is the seated capacity of the stadium which was completed in 1999. La Cartuja, or Estadio de la Cartuja to use its full name, was part of Spain's bid to host the 2004 and 2008 Olympics. Both bids were unsuccessful, yet the stadium still sees plenty of world-class action (just as well, seeing as it cost 120 million euros to build). The stadium is sometimes home to the Spanish national football team – currently one of the best teams in the world – and hosted the 2003 UEFA Cup Final between Celtic and Porto. Your visit to Seville might also coincide with a major tennis tournament (the Davis Cup final was hosted here twice) or athletics competition.
If you enjoy large-scale music concerts, this is another reason to make your way to la Cartuja. Easily the city's biggest entertainment venue, it has hosted the likes of U2, Madonna and Mexican icon Luis Miguel. The atmosphere at La Cartuja when filled to capacity (72,000 with standing) is utterly electric.
Spectators of sporting events are sheltered from the elements by the stadium's roof, although if you're standing to watch a concert this won't be the case. Take sun cream or an umbrella, depending on the season. Occasionally, for tennis matches, a roof is fitted over the entire venue. Snacks including tapas and churros are available for reasonable prices.
If you're looking for somewhere to chill out before of after a show or match, head to the adjacent Alamillo Park. This is a beautiful, grassy spot with a couple of lakes. Fans and spectators often congregate here en masse.
La Cartuja is on Isla de la Cartuja on the Guadalquivir River. The island is serviced by buses from the city centre. Check the stadium's website or that of the Seville tourist board for events dates.
