The San Mamés stadium is known as the Cathedral (La Catedral). This is due to the unique atmosphere that emanates from its stands, as highlighted not only by Athletic Club players, but also by their rivals who visit the stadium.
Imagine 53,000 souls roaring in unison, minutes before the ball even starts rolling. Families decked out in their red-&-white shirts, waving their scarves in the wind. A special, different kind of energy. It’s not just a match, it’s a celebration of what Athletic Club is and means.
1. Bust of ‘Pichichi’
Overlooking the scene is the bust of one of the most iconic lions: Rafael Moreno ‘Pichichi’. Located at the foot of the pitch, next to the tunnel leading to the changing rooms, between the two team benches, the captains of the visiting teams lay a floral tribute in his honour.
1.1 Chants
The supporters’ stand leads the soundtrack that echoes around San Mamés. The hit, without a doubt, is the Athletic Club anthem. But in recent years, songs have been added that are now part of the Red-&-White ‘Rojiblanco’ or ‘Zurigorri’ spirit, such as Mikel Laboa’s “Txoria Txori”, which the stadium sings a cappella at the end, an emotional moment that gives you goosebumps. Not to mention the infectious rhythm of “Shalalala, Athletic Club” and another classic of Basque music, “Ikusi Mendizaleak”.
1.2 Txalaparta
Another special moment is when, before the start of a match and during half-time, the txalaparta, an ancient Basque percussion instrument consisting of two boards that are struck rhythmically, resounds as a sign of the roots that link the red-&-white team to its people.
2. AC Museoa
San Mamés itself is home to AC Museoa Bilbao, the Athletic Club Museum, with more than 1,000 original objects and numerous interactive videos that review the history of the zurigorri club since 1898. A visit is essential to understand what makes the red-&-white team so special.
See the trophies and legendary shirts, discover the importance of the youth academy for the club and how Athletic Club fans live their passion for their team.
3. San Mamés Tour
Another way to delve into San Mamés and its magic is through the stadium Tour, which you can take with a guide or audio guide (available in Spanish, Basque, English and French). Visit the changing rooms, the press room, the dugouts and team benches…
Guided tours are available for individuals and groups.
4. VIP experiences
Don’t just watch a match, enjoy the whole experience with these VIP options at San Mamés, which, among other things, offer exclusive access to the stadium, premium amenities, the best view of the game and catering included before, during and after the match:
5. Hospitality
Bilbao is one of the European cities with the best cuisine, and San Mamés is no stranger to this. That’s why, in the lions’ own stadium, you can enjoy a menu with the best of Basque cuisine and the expertise of Chef Fernando Canales at San Mamés Jatetxea, with spectacular views of the pitch.
If you prefer burgers, hot dogs, salads, chips or sandwiches, you can also visit La Campa de los Ingleses and Geuria, both located in San Mamés itself!
Visit San Mamés during a Champions League match and discover why this stadium is known as the Cathedral!
