Stadium Information

The Olympisch Stadion in Amsterdam is an architectural and sporting gem that has played a fundamental role in the history of the Netherlands. Designed by architect Jan Wils, it is a prominent example of the Amsterdam School, complementing the surrounding neighborhood designed by H.P. Berlage. Its design earned it the gold medal in the architecture competition during the 1928 Olympic Games. 

Opened in 1928 for the Amsterdam Olympic Games, the stadium originally had a capacity of 31,600 spectators. To compete with De Kuip Stadium in Rotterdam, a second ring was added in 1937, increasing its capacity to 64,000. However, in a renovation between 1996 and 2000, its original design was restored, eliminating the second ring and reducing the capacity to 22,288 seats. 

In addition to its use during the Olympic Games, the Olympisch Stadion has been the venue for numerous sports and cultural events. The Ajax football club used the stadium for international matches until 1996, before moving to the Johan Cruyff Arena. Currently, the stadium is mainly used for athletics, concerts, and other sporting events. Since 2005, it has been home to the Olympic Experience Amsterdam sports museum, offering visitors a detailed insight into the country's rich sporting history. 

During the 1928 Olympic Games, the idea of the Olympic flame was first introduced. The flame burned in a tall tower, known as the Marathon Tower, adjacent to the stadium, marking the beginning of a tradition that continues to this day.