Belkaw Arena

BELKAW-Arena Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Bergisch Gladbach Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the vibrant town of Bergisch Gladbach, Germany, the BELKAW-Arena stands as a storied sports venue, capturing nearly a century of local athletic tradition and community spirit. Originally inaugurated in the early 1930s as the Waldstadion, the arena has evolved through wartime destruction, post-war reconstruction, and modern renovations to become a multi-purpose stadium hosting football matches, athletics events, and community gatherings. Its impact extends beyond sports—having hosted the landmark 1979 German Women’s Football Championship final, the BELKAW-Arena also played a pivotal role in promoting women’s football in Germany.

Today, the BELKAW-Arena serves as the home ground for SV Bergisch Gladbach 09, accommodating up to 10,500 spectators with its distinctive saddle roof and natural grass pitch surrounded by an athletics track. Visitors benefit from accessible facilities, food and beverage kiosks, and a welcoming atmosphere. The arena’s central location and transport links, combined with nearby historical and cultural attractions, make it a premier destination for sports fans and cultural explorers alike.

This comprehensive guide will equip you with essential information about BELKAW-Arena’s visiting hours, ticketing options, accessibility, stadium amenities, event highlights, and nearby Bergisch Gladbach historical sites. Whether you’re attending a football match, exploring local history, or enjoying community events, this article will help you make the most of your visit. For up-to-date details and schedules, consult the official SV Bergisch Gladbach 09 website and trusted portals (mappde.com, europlan-online.de, geissblog.koeln).

Introduction
Origins and Early Development
The Kreisstadtstadion Era and Women’s Football Milestone
Modernization and Renaming as BELKAW-Arena
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Stadium Structure, Facilities, and Accessibility
Event and Matchday Experience
Food, Beverage, and Souvenirs
Safety and Security
Getting There: Transport and Parking
Nearby Historical and Cultural Attractions
Practical Tips for Visiting
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Visit Tips
References

Origins and Early Development

The BELKAW-Arena’s roots trace back to 1932/33 with the construction of the Waldstadion, an athletic hub with seating for roughly 300 spectators (mappde.com). Destroyed during World War II, it was replaced in the 1950s by the larger Kreisstadtstadion, reflecting both community optimism and the rise of organized sports in post-war West Germany.

The Kreisstadtstadion Era and Women’s Football Milestone

The Kreisstadtstadion quickly became a centerpiece for local and regional events. Its most historic moment came in 1979, when it hosted the German Women’s Football Championship final between SSG 09 Bergisch Gladbach and FC Bayern München, drawing a capacity crowd and highlighting the stadium’s significance in women’s football history (mappde.com).

Modernization and Renaming as BELKAW-Arena

By the 1980s, a need for updated facilities led to the opening of the Stadion An der Paffrather Straße in 1986, featuring a 1,800-seat covered main stand beneath a distinctive saddle roof (europlan-online.de). In 2005, the stadium was renamed BELKAW-Arena through a sponsorship arrangement, following a trend of public-private partnerships in German sports venues. The arena underwent continuous improvements, including upgrades to the pitch and infrastructure, ensuring a modern and comfortable experience for all visitors (termine.de).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Opening Hours:
The BELKAW-Arena is open to the public primarily on matchdays and during special events. Gates typically open 60–90 minutes before kickoff or event start time (termine.de). For non-event visits or guided tours, contact the club or check online for availability.

Tickets:

Tickets for SV Bergisch Gladbach 09 matches can be purchased online through the club’s official website or at the stadium’s box office.
Prices vary by seating: Main stand seats are typically €20 (concessions €17), standing terraces €15 (€12 for children, students, seniors, and people with disabilities).
For high-profile matches (e.g., friendlies with Bundesliga clubs), it’s advisable to book in advance due to increased demand (geissblog.koeln).

Stadium Structure, Facilities, and Accessibility

Capacity and Layout:
The arena accommodates approximately 10,500 spectators, with both covered seating and open terraces. The main stand’s covered seats provide excellent views, while standing areas offer a classic football atmosphere.

Accessibility:
BELKAW-Arena is equipped with ramps, accessible seating, and restrooms for visitors with disabilities. Parking spaces for people with reduced mobility are available, and the stadium supports the inclusion of fans with special needs through the SV 09 Special Team program.

Restrooms and Hygiene:
Clean, well-maintained restrooms are located throughout the stadium, with increased cleaning during major events.

Family-Friendly Environment:
Clear signage, trained staff, and a welcoming culture ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for families, children, and visitors of all ages.

Event and Matchday Experience

BELKAW-Arena’s matchdays are lively and welcoming. The stadium’s compact design ensures fans are close to the action, and the atmosphere is enhanced by local supporters, live music, and community events.

Lighting and Night Matches:
Floodlights enable evening fixtures, creating an exciting and unique matchday experience.

Community and Cultural Events:
Beyond football, the arena hosts family festivals, athletic competitions, concerts, and open-air services, reinforcing its role as a community hub (in-gl.de).

Food, Beverage, and Souvenirs

On-site concession stands offer classic stadium fare such as bratwurst, pretzels, fries, and local beverages (including options from sponsors like Gaffel and Fassbrause). Vegetarian options are available. Payment is typically by cash or card, but carrying some cash for smaller vendors is advisable.

Official club merchandise, including scarves, jerseys, and matchday programs, is sold at the stadium shop and pop-up stalls. These souvenirs make for memorable keepsakes.

Safety and Security

BELKAW-Arena maintains modern safety protocols, including bag checks, metal detectors, visible security staff, and clearly marked emergency exits. First aid stations are staffed during events, and announcements are made in German and English during larger games. Smoking and alcohol consumption follow local regulations and are only allowed in designated areas.

Getting There: Transport and Parking

Location:
Paffrather Str. 133, 51465 Bergisch Gladbach, Germany

Public Transport:

Local bus lines stop near the arena.
The S-Bahn station “Bergisch Gladbach” is about 1.5 km away, providing direct connections to Cologne and the region.

By Car:

On-site parking is available but limited during major events. Early arrival is recommended.
Additional public parking lots nearby are clearly signposted.

Bicycles:

Bicycle parking is available, supporting sustainable travel options (onlinestreet.de).

Nearby Historical and Cultural Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring Bergisch Gladbach’s historical sites:

Altenberger Dom: A Romanesque-Gothic cathedral known for its striking architecture (dasbergische.de).
Schloss Bensberg: A baroque palace offering panoramic views and formal gardens (tourism.restexpert.com).
Villa Zanders: Contemporary art gallery in a historic villa (commons.wikimedia.org).
Königsforst: Expansive forest with hiking and cycling trails (trfihi-parks.com).
Papiermühle Alte Dombach: A museum in a former paper mill, showcasing traditional papermaking (industriemuseum.lvr.de).

These attractions are easily accessible by foot, public transport, or car (placesandthingstodo.com).

Practical Tips for Visiting

Check the schedule: Always verify event times and ticket availability on the SV Bergisch Gladbach 09 website.
Arrive early: For best parking and to enjoy pre-match activities.
Dress for the weather: The stadium is partially covered, but North Rhine-Westphalia’s weather can be unpredictable.
Payment: While cards are widely accepted, some smaller vendors may require cash.
Public transport: Recommended during major events to avoid parking congestion.
Respect local customs: Embrace the local football culture and stadium etiquette.
Combine your visit: Explore Bergisch Gladbach’s historical attractions before or after your stadium experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are BELKAW-Arena visiting hours?
A: The stadium is open primarily on matchdays and special events, generally opening 60–90 minutes before kickoff. Check the SV Bergisch Gladbach 09 website for details.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Tickets can be purchased online, at the stadium box office, or through authorized outlets.

Q: Is the stadium accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, BELKAW-Arena offers accessible seating, ramps, and restrooms.

Q: What are the food and beverage options?
A: Classic German stadium food, local specialties, and beverages are sold at concession stands.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, guided tours are offered—check with the club or the Bürgerportal Bergisch Gladbach for updates.

Q: What are nearby attractions?
A: Altenberger Dom, Schloss Bensberg, Villa Zanders, Königsforst, and Papiermühle Alte Dombach are all nearby.

Summary and Visit Tips

BELKAW-Arena is much more than a sports stadium—it’s a living part of Bergisch Gladbach’s history and culture. From its origins as the Waldstadion to hosting landmark events like the 1979 German Women’s Football Championship final and high-profile friendlies, the arena remains at the heart of the community. Modern facilities, strong accessibility, vibrant matchday experiences, and a wealth of nearby attractions make BELKAW-Arena a top destination for sports fans and visitors alike.

For the most current updates, ticket purchases, and event information, visit the SV Bergisch Gladbach 09 website, consult trusted resources, and consider downloading the Audiala app for real-time news and exclusive content.

Plan your visit today to experience the dynamic spirit of Bergisch Gladbach’s premier sports and cultural venue (mappde.com, termine.de, geissblog.koeln).

References and Further Reading

BELKAW-Arena in Bergisch Gladbach: A Historic Sports Venue with Visitor Information and Local Highlights (mappde.com)
BELKAW-Arena Stadion An der Paffrather Straße Details (europlan-online.de)
SV Bergisch Gladbach 09 Pre-season and Match Schedules (geissblog.koeln)
BELKAW-Arena Event Calendar (termine.de)
Bürgerportal Bergisch Gladbach BELKAW-Arena (in-gl.de)
Onlinestreet Paffrather Straße (onlinestreet.de)
Altenberger Dom (dasbergische.de)
Schloss Bensberg (tourism.restexpert.com)
Villa Zanders (commons.wikimedia.org)
Königsforst (trfihi-parks.com)
Papiermühle Alte Dombach (industriemuseum.lvr.de)
Places and Things to Do in Gladbach (placesandthingstodo.com)