Although the official name of the sports facility is Alberto Juan Armando, the stadium is often referred to by its nickname, La Bombonera (“the candy box”). While El Monumental is the home arena of the popular River Plate club, this sports complex is considered the stadium of another metropolitan club that is also popular in Argentina (Boca Juniors).
La Bombonera has a capacity of 57,395 seats and is designed by architects H-L. Delpini, V. Sulcic and R. Bes. The uniqueness of the construction lies in the effect of vibration, when the spectators, supporting the “Boca”, jump and clap.
This sports arena has witnessed nine Libertadores Cup finals and various continental tournaments.
The stadium has a team museum where all the trophies won by Boca Juniors are on display, with stands dedicated to outstanding players of past years. Here you can see a sculpture dedicated to Diego Maradona, who defended the honor of Boca Juniors before moving to Barcelona. He also played his debut and farewell matches here.
History
The stadium was inaugurated on 25/05/1940 (named Camilo Cicero) in an area called La Boca. In 2000 it was given the name mentioned above. In the opening match the hosts hosted (and won 2-0) the club San Lorenzo. The design of the stadium was intended to build two tiers. However, at the first match the two-tier La Bombonera could not accommodate all fans, so in the late 40’s it was decided to carry out the first reconstruction of the arena to erect a third tier.
After the modernization, lighting was installed (to allow international matches), a third stand was built, and the stadium was nicknamed (La Bombonera), which is more famous than its official name. All work was completed in 1953.
But the management of the club could erect a fourth grandstand only in 1996, during another reconstruction (1995-2000), managed by M. Macri, president of the club. It is intended for VIP persons. After that the arena took its final form. The first three grandstands had a stepped design, while the last one, reserved for important guests, was erected vertically and had several flat areas.