Stadio Xxi Settembre Franco Salerno

Stadio XXI Settembre Franco Salerno: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Matera Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Stadio XXI Settembre-Franco Salerno, located in Matera, Italy, is a prominent symbol of the city’s sporting tradition, architectural heritage, and communal identity. Established in 1934 and named to commemorate the citizens’ uprising on September 21, 1943, the stadium is much more than a football venue—it is a living monument reflecting Matera’s resilience and unity. Home to Matera Calcio, it also serves as a dynamic hub for cultural events and community gatherings, affectionately known by locals as the “cattedrale urbana” (urban cathedral).

The stadium’s evolution—from its Italian rationalist architecture, designed by Vincenzo Corazza, to its contemporary redevelopment under the ambitious “Parco del Campo” project—demonstrates a continuous commitment to blending historical preservation with modern functionality. Visitors can explore its architectural highlights, attend football matches, participate in guided tours, and enjoy the green spaces and facilities being added through ongoing renovations. For up-to-date information on events and visiting logistics, consult the Matera Calcio Official Site, MateraNews, and NotiziarioCalcio.

Quick Visitor Guide

Location: Piccianello district, Matera, Italy (Via Sicilia / Via San Pardo)
Visiting Hours: Generally open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (hours may vary during events)
Tickets: Entry to the grounds is typically free for self-guided visits; tickets for football matches or events range from €5 to €25
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible with ramps, reserved seating, and accessible restrooms
Getting There: Accessible by city buses (lines 7, 14, 15), a 15-minute walk from Matera’s center; parking is available nearby

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Development

Opened in 1934 as “Campo degli sports,” the stadium was Matera’s first major sports facility, initially supporting football, basketball, and tennis. It was renamed after Luigi Razza in 1936, reflecting the era’s political influences, and served as a base for Allied forces during WWII. After sustaining damage, it reopened in 1947, resuming its role as a focal point for local sport.

The Name “XXI Settembre” and Symbolic Legacy

The stadium’s current name honors the September 21, 1943, uprising against Nazi occupation, establishing it as a civic symbol of resistance and pride.

Expansion and Modernization

Significant upgrades occurred post-war: new grandstands in 1951, expansion in the late 1970s to host Serie B matches (raising capacity to 15,000), and further improvements for safety and comfort. In 2001, the stadium was co-dedicated to Franco Salerno, and the main grandstand was later named for goalkeeper Franco Mancini.

Recent Renovations

Floodlights were added in 1998, with a major refurbishment in 2008 modernizing athlete and media facilities. The ongoing “Parco del Campo” redevelopment, supported by a €12+ million investment, is transforming the complex with green spaces, improved stands, and multifunctional amenities to be completed by 2026.

What to See and Do

Match Days: Experience the fervor of F.C. Matera’s Serie D football matches.
Guided Tours: Learn about the stadium’s architectural and historical features (booking recommended).
Photography: Capture the monumental entrance, Curva Sud with club crest, and panoramic grandstand views.
Special Events: Attend youth tournaments such as the “Gaetano Scirea” Under-16 Cup and community gatherings hosted at the stadium.

Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours & Tickets

The grounds are generally open 9:00 AM–7:00 PM, but hours may change for matches or special events. Entry for casual visits is free; match and event tickets can be purchased online or at the stadium. Guided tours are available by arrangement.

Accessibility

The stadium features step-free access, reserved seating, and accessible restrooms. Those with specific needs should contact the stadium in advance.

Getting There & Parking

The stadium is well-served by local buses (lines 7, 14, 15) and is a short walk from the city center. On-site and nearby parking are available, with expanded facilities during major events.

Nearby Attractions

Explore Matera’s UNESCO-listed Sassi district, Matera Cathedral, and local museums—all within easy reach of the stadium.

Stadio XXI Settembre-Franco Salerno: Architectural and Visitor Highlights

Architectural Context

Designed by Vincenzo Corazza, the stadium’s monumental entrance is a hallmark of Italian rationalist architecture. The current redevelopment maintains these historic elements while upgrading safety, comfort, and urban integration.

Stadium Layout

Capacity: Currently 7,490 certified seats (expected 7,000–7,400 after renovations)
Key Stands:
- Tribuna Centrale: Covered, main entrance on Via Sicilia, with VIP and press areas
- Lateral Stands: Flanking the central stand
- Curva Sud: Primary supporters’ section post-renovation
Pitch: 105 x 65 meters, hybrid natural-synthetic grass, floodlit for evening events

The “Parco del Campo” Project

This redevelopment project transforms the stadium into a multifunctional urban park, adding green spaces, modern stands, expanded parking, and family-friendly amenities. It emphasizes sustainability through energy-efficient lighting, solar panels, and waste management.

Stadio XXI Settembre-Franco Salerno is deeply woven into Matera’s identity. Named for a pivotal moment in local history, it acts as a gathering place for sport and civic life, reinforcing community bonds. Its role expanded with Matera’s European Capital of Culture status in 2019, symbolizing a broader cultural renaissance. While modernization continues, efforts are being made to preserve its unique character and emotional resonance (MateraNews, NotiziarioCalcio).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the stadium’s visiting hours?
A: Generally 9:00 AM–7:00 PM, but check the official site for variations during events.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Purchase online or at the stadium box office.

Q: Is the stadium accessible?
A: Yes; ramps, reserved seating, and accessible facilities are available.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by advance booking.

Q: What public transport serves the stadium?
A: City bus lines (7, 14, 15) connect the stadium to Matera’s center.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring:

Sassi di Matera: Ancient cave dwellings (UNESCO World Heritage)
Matera Cathedral: 13th-century marvel near the city center
MUSMA: Museum of contemporary sculpture
Casa Grotta di Vico Solitario: Historical cave dwelling museum

Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

For the latest schedules, tickets, and news: Matera Calcio Official Site
Download the Audiala app for real-time updates, exclusive content, and guided tour options.
Explore additional travel and cultural resources: Matera Tourism Office