Renato Dall'Ara
Former president of Bologna for thirty years.
Renato Dall'Ara (1892–1964) was a former president of Bologna for thirty years. The stadium named after him, Stadio Renato Dall'Ara, is a multi-purpose stadium in Bologna, Italy, currently used mostly for football matches and the home of Bologna FC. Designed by Giulio Ulisse Arata and inaugurated in 1927 as Stadio Littoriale, it was one of the first stadiums to incorporate the stands into the architecture.
- Architect
- Giulio Ulisse Arata
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Renato Dall'Ara served as president of Bologna for thirty years, from 1934 until his death in 1964. The stadium that bears his name was originally inaugurated in 1927 as Stadio Littoriale, designed by Giulio Ulisse Arata. It was one of the first stadiums to incorporate the stands into the architecture, an innovation that later became the model for stadiums around the world. The large arch originally contained an equestrian statue of the dictator Benito Mussolini, which was removed in 1943 and later destroyed by partisans after the liberation of Bologna on April 21, 1945. The stadium replaced the Stadio Sterlino and is named after Renato Dall'Ara, who was a former president of Bologna for thirty years. The stadium hosted matches in both the 1934 FIFA World Cup and the 1990 FIFA World Cup. The last match of the 1990 tournament played there was the England vs Belgium match in the Round of 16, which ended 1–0 courtesy of an extra-time goal scored by David Platt in the 119th minute. Located in the Saragozza district, about 3.5 km from the center of the city, it regularly hosts Bologna's home matches. The stadium has around 36,000 seats and its capacity can be increased up to 55,000 for concerts.
In Their Own Story
On 17 November 1993, the stadium hosted a World Cup qualifier between San Marino and England. England won 7–1, but only after the hosts scored in the opening seconds of the match. It was the quickest goal ever scored, by Davide Gualtieri of San Marino, taking 8.3 seconds to put his team ahead against England. The stadium also hosted three international rugby union test matches: in 1995, Italy vs. All Blacks (the All Blacks won 70–6); in 1997, Italy vs. Springboks (the Springboks won); and Italy vs. Ireland (Italy won). The stadium features as the lead song on the Los Campesinos! album 'Sick Scenes'.
Did You Know?
- The stadium was inaugurated in 1927 as Stadio Littoriale.
- It was one of the first stadiums to incorporate the stands into the architecture.
- The large arch originally contained an equestrian statue of Benito Mussolini, removed in 1943 and destroyed by partisans after the liberation of Bologna on April 21, 1945.
- The stadium hosted matches in both the 1934 and 1990 FIFA World Cups.
- The quickest goal ever scored (8.3 seconds) was made here by Davide Gualtieri of San Marino against England on 17 November 1993.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Renato Dall'Ara?
He served as the club’s president and founder from 1937 to 1954, earning a legendary status within the organization. The stadium bears his name in honor of this foundational leadership period.
Where is the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara located?
This historic fortress stands in the heart of Bologna’s south-eastern district in Italy. It has remained the primary home for the Rossoblu for almost a century.
What major achievements were hosted at this venue?
During its prime, the ground witnessed five Serie A titles and two Italian Cups won by the team. These honors define the club's golden eras within these walls.
How is the stadium described architecturally?
It features a distinctive oval shape with grandstands that encircle the playing field. This design stands as a monument to the sport’s history in the region.
What was the historic capacity of the ground?
Across various eras, the stadium held approximately 38,000 to 52,000 spectators at full occupancy. These numbers reflect its significance as a major football venue during that time.
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