Football
When many people think of Catalonia, Barcelona often comes to mind. Yet, just about an hour’s drive northeast of the regional capital lies the charming old town of Girona. Perched on a fortified hill overlooking the Onia River, this city has a rich history dating back over two millennia, with legends claiming it has seen a battle every century since the Romans erected the Glenda Fortress. Today, while the locals may not face actual sieges, the closest they get is cheering on their beloved Girona FC at the Montilivi Stadium.
Table of contents
- History Of The Estadi Montilivi
- Structure
- Always Developing
- Girona FC
- Even Pets Are Welcome In Girona Football Club
- Atmosphere and Fan Experience
- We Are All About Football!
History Of The Estadi Montilivi
source: Campo de Vista Alegre – Girona FC’s former home from 1930-70 © X
In 1920, the founding of UD Girona FC set everything in motion. The club built its football stadium, Camp de Vista Alegre, which opened on July 29, 1922. In 1930, they changed the name and founded F.C. Girona, the club’s headquarters since then.
In the late 1960s, Girona FC managers began planning a new stadium. The architect of the new space was Josep Ros, and the main contractor was Fomento de Obras y Construcciones. The construction cost was just under 6.5 million pesetas.
On August 14, 1970, the Stadi Municipal de Montilivi opened in Girona, creating a new era for Girona FC. It was the second stadium after the old Vista Alegre Stadium, which has served the club loyally for almost fifty years. This dream came true during the summer of 1970 when Girona FC hosted three days’ worth of elite football.
The opening match witnessed 25 thousand people (much more than its capacity) attending as spectators while FC Barcelona won 3-1 against Girona FC. Feliciano Vivolas, writing his name in history, scored Girona’s first goal at Montilivi in the inauguration.
Over the next two days, the stadium hosted the first edition of the Trofeo Costa Brava friendly tournament. The mix included Valencia CF, Espanyol Barcelona, Borussia Neunkirchen from Germany, and San Lorenzo de Almagro from Argentina. And can you believe that this tournament, with some breaks along the way, continues to run every year to this day?
However, the club lost its inheritance from the municipality of Montilivi during financial difficulties, which led to an emergency solution and leadership changes. Only in September 2018 did the Plenary of the Girona City Council finally approve the stadium’s concession to the club for 50 years, guaranteeing the continuity and stability of Girona FC in its sporting home.
The stadium remained the same over the years and gradually began to fall into disrepair. In 2008, when the club was promoted to the Segunda Division (second tier), the stadium was on the verge of collapsing. The club installed new seats to improve the stadium and renovated the infrastructure. This led to the construction of an east stand completed in 2010.
In 2024, the Montilivi Stadium celebrates its 54th anniversary, remembering its history and the passion and dedication that made it a memorable part of the Girona community.
Structure
Estadi Montilivi is a modern beautiful stadium with single-level, gently sloping stands surrounding the pitch. The main covered stand is around 60 meters long and is on the west side at a slightly higher elevation. It is separated from the others by earthen benches.
Its reinforced concrete structure provides a similar appearance to the Estadi de la Nova Creu Alta in Sabadell. Over the years, they made temporary additions that increased capacity to 13,500 spectators in 2017, and after relegation in 2019, they reduced capacity to 11,200. With the return to the La Liga league in 2022, the stadium management added more rows, increasing the capacity to 13,400 spectators.
Always Developing
There is a project to transform the Estadi Municipal de Montilivi entirely. Between 2018 and 2023, some enhancements have been made, such as a new sound system and temporary fan seats.
By 2028, the most significant modifications to the stadium’s elevation will start. They include erecting fixed stands, changing the asbestos roof for a new one, and renewing the pitch. These projects are anticipated to exceed €15 million.
Also, Montilivi will experience several significant redevelopments: the complete refurbishment of the central, north, and south tribunes is planned for 2028-2033. The overall cost of improvements may be up to €34 million.
There are plans for a commercial area around the stadium, which will open in 2033. The city of Girona, Spain, is planning to invest €200,000 annually towards refurbishing Estadi Montilivi; these efforts are expected not only to update it as a football venue but also to establish it as a business and leisure destination.
Girona FC
Playing football for Girona FC goes past competing or taking part in training alone; it reaches out to and extends within the community through various acts of charity undertaken over time. I think it’s fascinating how the Estadi Montilivi is the house of a club that cares about people.
Proximity
Proximity is a fundamental value for Girona FC. As a club closely linked to its fans and community, Girona establishes partnerships with various entities, companies, and institutions that comprise the region’s social, economic, and cultural fabric.
Territories
Girona FC has its roots firmly established in Girona and its surrounding region, the Gironin counties of North Catalonia. In addition to being actively involved in the city’s life, the club extends its influence to different locations, encouraging the formation of fan groups and promoting actions that reach beyond Girona’s borders and make good to people.
Communication
Girona FC uses its platform and reach to encourage participation in various initiatives and collaborate on campaigns aimed at those facing social, economic, or health difficulties.
The club recognizes and supports all who make up the white and red family, demonstrating solidarity and empathy in times of need. It is really worth following their social media and watching all the good they are doing.
Even Pets Are Welcome In Girona Football Club
Girona FC is not just an ordinary football club. In addition to seeking victories in the fields, they are committed to protecting and respecting animals. As a pet lover, I am all for it!
The Animal Membership Card is a way to make the animals feel like they are part of the Girona family. Each club member can register a pet for free and forever! It’s like welcoming pets into the world of football. And even those who are not members can register their pets by paying a small fee per season.
Owners receive a personalized card with their pet’s photo and discounts on official pet products. Collars, feeders, clothes… everything with a 10% discount at the official Girona store. It’s a true paradise for pets!
So, if you are passionate about football and your pets, Girona FC is the perfect club for you!
Atmosphere and Fan Experience
Girona FC ensures that the atmosphere at Estadi Montilivi during Girona FC matches is truly unique. The club’s actions result in the fans coming together to support their team passionately and enthusiastically, creating an electric atmosphere that drives the players on the field. The experience of watching a game at the stadium is singular, with chants, flags, and celebrations that echo throughout. If you are a football lover, visit the stadium on one game day and enjoy a complete football experience!
We Are All About Football!
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