Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino

Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino, located in the Santa Rita district of Turin, is a legendary landmark in Italian football and Olympic history. Originally opened in 1933, the stadium served as the grand stage for the 2006 Winter Olympics opening and closing ceremonies. It is the spiritual and physical home ground for Torino FC, one of Italy’s most historic clubs. The stadium is famous for its intimate atmosphere and the passionate “Curva Maratona” fans who keep the memory of the “Invincible” Grande Torino team alive. Renamed in 2016 to honor the legendary squad that perished in the Superga air disaster, the stadium remains a high-energy venue where every goal is celebrated with profound local pride.

🏗️ History and Design

Established in the 1930s as the Stadio Municipale Benito Mussolini, the venue was renamed several times before its massive 2006 Olympic reconstruction.

Unique Geometry: Unlike many sprawling European stadiums, the Olimpico features a compact, rectangular design with a single-tier bowl. The stands are relatively close to the pitch for a stadium with an athletics heritage, ensuring an intense and intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams.
The Pitch: The natural grass surface is maintained to elite Serie A standards. Known for its durability and drainage, it has hosted some of the most technical “Derby della Mole” clashes in Italian football history.
Modernization: The 2006 renovation added a distinctive continuous roof structure that covers all seats. The stadium also features modern press facilities and VIP lounges, making it one of the most efficient “mid-sized” elite stadiums in Italy.
Heritage Backdrop: The stadium is part of a wider sports complex that includes the “Filadelfia” training ground nearby, ensuring the venue is deeply rooted in the working-class football culture of Turin’s southern districts.

📍 Key Information

Official Name: Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino
Location: Turin (Torino), Italy (Santa Rita District)
Opened: 1933 (Renovated 2006)
Capacity: 28,177
Primary Tenant: Torino FC (Serie A)
Address: Via Filadelfia, 96, 10134 Torino TO, Italy

Contents

🏆 Major Events Hosted

Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino has been the site of some of the most prestigious sporting and cultural events in Southern Europe. 🏆

2006 Winter Olympics: The stadium was the global centerpiece for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, putting Turin on the international map.
Serie A & Coppa Italia: It hosts bi-weekly high-stakes Italian league matches, most notably the fierce home fixtures of Torino FC against national giants.
European Competition: The stadium has hosted numerous UEFA Europa League and UEFA Cup nights, welcoming clubs from across the continent.
International Concerts: As a major metropolitan venue, it has hosted legendary music acts including U2, Madonna, and Bruce Springsteen.

🚆 Getting to Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino

The stadium is located in a well-connected residential area, and Turin’s public transit network is the most efficient way to travel on match days. 🚆

By Public Transport (Tram): Line 4 is the primary “football tram,” connecting the stadium directly with the city center and the Porta Nuova station. Get off at the Sebastopoli or Filadelfia stops.
By Air: Turin Airport (TRN), also known as Caselle, is approximately 20 km away. A taxi or the airport bus (Sadem) takes about 30–45 minutes to reach the city center.
By Train: The stadium is closest to Torino Porta Nuova (3 km) and Torino Porta Susa. From either station, the tram or bus (Line 10) will take you directly to the stadium area in 15–20 minutes.
By Foot: Walking from the Santa Rita area or the nearby Parco Cavalieri di Vittorio Veneto is easy and common for local fans, as the area is very pedestrian-friendly.
Parking: Street parking is extremely limited and subject to resident-only restrictions. Using the “Park & Ride” facilities further out and taking the tram is strongly recommended.

🎟️ Tickets & Tours at Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino

Tickets

Tickets for Torino FC matches are sold via the official club website, Vivaticket, or at the stadium box office on non-match days. For high-profile matches against Juventus, Inter, or Milan, tickets sell out quickly and often require a “Tessera del Tifoso” (Fan Card). Digital tickets are standard, but always ensure your ID (Passport) matches the name on the ticket, as Italian security checks are strict. 🎫

Tours

Torino FC offers tours of the stadium and the nearby Museo del Grande Torino e della Leggenda Granata (located in Grugliasco, but often linked). Visitors can explore the locker rooms, the tunnel, and the pitch-side areas. It is recommended to check the official club site for tour schedules, which are paused on match days.

🏨 Where to Stay Near Stadio Olimpico Grande Torino

Staying in the Santa Rita or Crocetta districts puts you within walking distance of the stadium and offers a more authentic local experience.

Santa Rita / Lingotto: The immediate vicinity of the stadium. It is well-served by restaurants and cafes.
- Example: Hotel Cairo or AC Hotel by Marriott Torino (near Lingotto).
City Center (Porta Nuova): The best for those who want to explore Turin’s historic palaces and cafes while staying on the direct Tram 4 line.
San Salvario: A vibrant area near the park, perfect for fans looking for nightlife and local “aperitivo” spots after the game.

💡 Know Before You Go

Security Protocol: Security is rigorous. Prohibited items include large bags, glass bottles, umbrellas with points, and professional cameras. Expect a two-stage security check (ID check followed by a body search).
Derby della Mole: If visiting for the derby against Juventus, expect heightened security and a very intense atmosphere. It is one of the most passionate rivalries in Italy.
Local Food: Try the “Panino con Salsiccia di Bra” from the street vendors outside the stadium. It is a Turin match-day staple.
Fan Etiquette: The “Curva Maratona” is for the most hardcore Torino supporters. If you are a neutral, it is better to book a seat in the “Distinti” or “Tribuna” sections.