Historical Development of Scharrena Stuttgart
Origins and Urban Context
Scharrena emerged from the major redevelopment of the Mercedes-Benz Arena in the late 2000s, during which the stadium was reconfigured exclusively for football. The removal of the running track and restructuring of the Untertürkheimer and Cannstatter curves created vacant space beneath the new stands, paving the way for a new multi-purpose sports facility. The aim was to fill the gap between small sports halls and large arenas, addressing a vital need in Stuttgart’s sports infrastructure (de-academic.com; stuttgart.de).
Construction Timeline and Architectural Features
The old Untertürkheimer Kurve was demolished in 2009, and a new rear stand with integrated Scharrena was completed by 2010, with the interior finished in early 2011. Officially opening on April 5, 2011, the €13 million project stands out as a rare example of a vertical sports hall beneath a football stadium’s stand, featuring large glazed windows and a rooftop terrace connected to the Soccer Lounge business area. This integration maximizes available urban space while delivering flexibility for a range of sports and events (asp Architekten).
Sporting and Community Role
Scharrena’s flexible design makes it ideal for competitions that do not require the city’s largest arenas. It serves as the home venue for Bundesliga women’s volleyball (Allianz MTV Stuttgart), regional handball, gymnastics, fencing, and other sports. The German Fencing Federation’s youth performance center is also based here, promoting talent development and elite sports (stuttgart.de).
Naming Significance: SCHARRena Stuttgart
Corporate Partnership
The naming rights for Scharrena were acquired by Friedrich Scharr KG, a Stuttgart-based energy supplier, in 2011. This partnership provided vital funding and established the stylized branding "SCHARRena," combining the sponsor’s name with the German word for arena. The initial agreement covered ten years, with an option for extension (de-academic.com).
Local Identity and Community
This naming arrangement illustrates the close ties between Stuttgart’s business community and its sports culture. The involvement of a local company reinforces Scharrena’s role as a community asset and a symbol of regional cooperation and investment (stuttgart.de).
Visiting Scharrena Stuttgart: Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Information
Location and Arrival
- Address Fritz-Walter-Weg 5, 70372 Stuttgart, within NeckarPark in Bad Cannstatt.
- Public Transport S-Bahn lines S1, S2, S3 stop at "Neckarpark (Mercedes-Benz)," near the arena. U-Bahn (U1, U16) and bus lines also serve the area.
- Parking Nearby garages (e.g., Parkhaus Mercedes-Benz Arena, P10) are available. Early arrival is recommended due to high demand during events.
Visiting Hours
Scharrena opens primarily during scheduled events. Doors typically open one hour before event start and close about one hour after. For current schedules, consult the official Scharrena website or event calendar.
Ticket Information
- Purchase Options Tickets are available online, via official platforms, and at the venue box office (subject to availability).
- Pricing Ticket prices depend on event and seating; standard events range from €10 to €30, with concessions for youth and community events. Advance booking is advised (Scharrena Tickets).
- Accessibility Wheelchair users and companions can book accessible seating. The venue is fully barrier-free; contact staff for assistance if needed (Accessibility Information).
Facilities and Amenities
- Seating Up to 2,251 spectators (1,847 seats, 404 standing places), with dedicated press and VIP areas.
- Food & Beverage Two main kiosks offer snacks and drinks; outside food is not permitted.
- Additional Spaces VIP room (190 guests), spacious foyers for gatherings, and a professional fencing training hall.
- Restrooms & Cloakroom Modern, accessible restrooms; cloakrooms available during large events.
Event Experience and Practical Tips
Types of Events
Scharrena regularly hosts:
- Elite women’s volleyball (Allianz MTV Stuttgart)
- Handball (TVB 1898 Stuttgart), gymnastics, fencing, basketball, judo, dance, and more
- Community sports, cultural events, and occasional concerts
Atmosphere and Entry
The arena’s compact design creates an intimate, energetic setting. Multiple entrances and logical crowd flow promote smooth access. Security checks are standard; prohibited items include large bags, glass bottles, and pyrotechnics.
Visitor Advice
- Arrive Early Especially for popular events, to secure parking and seating.
- Dress Code Casual and comfortable; team apparel is encouraged during sports events.
- Photography Personal photos are usually allowed; professional equipment may require permission.
- Lost & Found Contact venue staff or use the official website post-event.
- Safety The venue complies with up-to-date safety and accessibility standards.
Nearby Attractions
- Mercedes-Benz Museum Celebrating automotive history, just a short walk away.
- Cannstatter Wasen Site of major festivals and open-air concerts.
- Other Venues MHPArena, Porsche-Arena, and Hanns-Martin-Schleyer-Halle are all nearby, offering additional sports and cultural events.
- Dining & Hotels NeckarPark and Bad Cannstatt feature diverse culinary and accommodation options (Stuttgart Tourist).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the visiting hours for Scharrena Stuttgart?
A: The arena opens for scheduled events, typically one hour before start time. Check schedules online.
Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Via official event websites, ticketing platforms, or at the box office. Advance purchase is recommended.
Q: Is Scharrena wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with barrier-free entrances, seating, elevators, and restrooms.
Q: Are outside food and drinks allowed?
A: No, but kiosks inside offer a range of options.
Q: Can I take photos inside?
A: Personal photography is allowed; professional equipment may be restricted.
Q: Is there parking nearby?
A: Yes, in several garages and along Mercedesstraße, but spaces fill quickly during major events.
Plan Your Visit
For the latest event schedules, ticketing, and visitor information, visit the official Scharrena Stuttgart website and event calendar. Download the Audiala app for real-time updates and exclusive content to enhance your visit.
Summary
Scharrena Stuttgart is a hallmark of innovative urban sports architecture and a vibrant center for sports and cultural life in Stuttgart. Its unique integration with the Mercedes-Benz Arena, comprehensive accessibility, and role as a home for elite and community events make it a must-visit for sports fans and cultural enthusiasts alike. Whether attending a high-stakes volleyball match or exploring Stuttgart’s broader event scene, Scharrena offers a welcoming and dynamic experience. For current visiting hours, ticketing, and events, always refer to official resources and consider using digital tools like the Audiala app for seamless planning (de-academic.com; stuttgart.de; asp Architekten; stuttgarts-schoenster-sport.de; scharr.de; stuttgart-tourist.de).
