Mineirão, Belo Horizonte

The Mineirão, officially known as Estádio Governador Magalhães Pinto, stands as an iconic sport venue in the bustling city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. This grand stadium has been at the heart of Brazilian football since its inauguration in 1965 and is one of the largest football stadiums in the country.

With a seating capacity of over 60,000, Mineirão is not just a stage for thrilling sports events but also a significant landmark for the local community and football fans worldwide. It has hosted numerous important matches, including games during the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games, making it a site of memorable sporting history.

The stadium underwent a major renovation in 2012 to modernize its facilities and comply with FIFA standards ahead of the 2014 World Cup. The upgrade included the installation of a new roof, improved accessibility, and enhanced sustainability measures such as rainwater collection for pitch irrigation and solar panels that make it one of the first stadiums in the world with a self-sufficient energy supply.

Aside from football, Mineirão also serves as a versatile venue for concerts and other large-scale events, showcasing the stadium's adaptability and significance beyond sports. Visitors can explore the stadium's internal museum, the Mineirão Football Museum, which exhibits the rich football culture of Minas Gerais state and the legendary moments that took place within the stadium's walls.

Open for tours, the Mineirão allows fans to walk through the players' tunnel, sit on the team benches, and even step onto the pitch, offering a behind-the-scenes experience of this sporting cathedral. The stadium's design also provides a stunning view of the Pampulha Architectural Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, further enhancing its appeal as a must-visit destination in Belo Horizonte.