Schalke's iconic Parkstadion, once a 62,000-capacity venue that hosted the 1997 UEFA Cup final, now lies largely unrecognisable after years of neglect. The first leg of that final between Schalke 04 and Inter Milan took place there, with the German club winning 1-0 before triumphing on penalties in Italy.
Built in 1973, the stadium served as Schalke's home until 2001, when the club moved to the modern Veltins Arena. Parkstadion also hosted five matches during the 1974 World Cup and two group-stage games at Euro 1988. Music legends such as Michael Jackson, The Rolling Stones, and Pink Floyd performed there.
By the 1990s, the stadium was showing its age, with stands far from the pitch and a lack of cover. After Schalke's departure, it fell into disrepair and was partially demolished by 2008. For years, aerial photos showed the stands and surroundings in a derelict state.
However, a major redevelopment project has transformed the area into a high-tech campus for Schalke's youth academy. Since 2020, a scaled-down 2,999-capacity ground has been in use, featuring preserved original concrete terracing and a single floodlight mast. Schalke's Under-23 side and youth teams now play there, honouring the club's heritage.
