Olympic Stadium
4545 Pierre-de Coubertin Ave, Montreal, Quebec H1V 0B2, Canada
The Olympic Stadium in Montreal, Quebec, is an iconic architectural landmark and a symbol of the 1976 Summer Olympics. Designed by French architect Roger Taillibert, the stadium is renowned for its unique design and engineering features, including the distinctive inclined tower, which is the tallest inclined structure in the world at 165 meters.
Located in the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve district, the stadium is part of the larger Olympic Park, which includes other sports facilities, the Montreal Biodome, and the Montreal Botanical Garden. The stadium's construction began in 1973 and faced numerous challenges, including delays and cost overruns, but it was completed just in time for the Olympics.
The stadium's most notable feature is its retractable roof, which was intended to be opened and closed using cables suspended from the tower. However, due to technical issues and the harsh Montreal winters, the roof was often problematic and has been replaced several times. Despite these challenges, the stadium has remained a significant part of Montreal's skyline and cultural heritage.
During the 1976 Olympics, the stadium hosted the opening and closing ceremonies, athletics events, and soccer matches. The games are particularly remembered for the performance of Romanian gymnast Nadia Comăneci, who scored the first perfect 10 in Olympic history. The stadium's seating capacity was approximately 56,000 during the Olympics, and it has since been adjusted for various events.
Post-Olympics, the stadium has served as a venue for a wide range of activities, including professional sports, concerts, trade shows, and community events. It was the home of the Montreal Expos, Major League Baseball's first Canadian team, from 1977 until the team relocated in 2004. The stadium has also hosted notable concerts by artists such as Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones, and U2, showcasing its versatility as an event space.
