New Update May 2006
DESIGNED & MAINTAINED BY D4 - new interactive map coming soon

Cardiff Arms Park
The Millennium Stadium, Cardiff.

Rising like a Phoenix from the ashes of the old Cardiff Arms Park, the Millennium Stadium, situated in the centre of the city, stands as an icon for the modern metropolis that is Cardiff. Close to the main shopping, eating and entertainment districts of the city, the new National Stadium is also placed conveniently for road and train links.

Designed with a seating capacity of almost 73,000, the stadium has proudly taken its place in the premier league of sporting arenas. The retractable roof, occasionally opened so that God 'can see the boys play', highlights the 21st technology that has gone into creating this amphitheatre, where the sporting legends of the future will come to parade their skills.

Cardiff Arms Park saw such heroes. As a venue for international rugby and the spiritual home of Welsh rugby, superstars such as Barry John, Gareth Edwards, JPR Williams et al all thrilled a watching Welsh public. Folk heroes all, the mystique of the stadium grew with the passion of the crowd, hymns and arias reverberating from the West Stand to the East Terrace.

Local Football Hero's
In later days, the Arms Park played host to the principalities footballing stars - Ian Rush, Mark Hughes and Ryan Giggs all gracing the hallowed turf, its importance to Welshmen akin to that of Wembley to the English. But the needs of the new millennium and the hosting of the Rugby World Cup required a fresh approach to the housing of international sport. The decision was made to revitalise the site as a venue, rather than refurbish the Arms Park as it was.

Any fears that the public of Wales may have had about the new National Stadium were removed its opening in 1999. New spectator facilities - restaurants, bars and corporate facilities - all outshone that offered by its predecessor. But what of the legendary atmosphere, the 'hwyl' which was thought to be worth at least a try or a goal to the home nation? If anything it returned with a vengeance. The towering cantilever design placing each and every player within a whisker of their adoring fans and to the sound of their singing.

Cardiff Match Days
And now the supporters of football teams across England can see the spectacle for themselves - assuming their teams play well enough! Wembley acted as Welsh Rugby's home during the development of the Millennium Stadium. Now, as Wembley itself undergoes a massive transformation, the people of Wales can proudly return the favour by hosting all of the major cup finals and league play-offs for the next 3 years staring with the Worthington Cup Final in February 2001.

Take a tour - Ever wondered what rugby and football players feel as they walk down the tunnel before running on to the pitch at the start of a big match? Well find out with an official tour of the Millennium Stadium. Take a look at the teams dressing rooms, visit the VIP area and walk the turf - all awaiting you an these daily tours.

The Millennium Stadium
Westgate Street
Cardiff
Daily 10am-4pm
Tel: 0875 582582

www.millenniumstadium.com

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