Every four years, the world tunes in to see athletes from around the globe compete for medals. Among all the excitement, one thing stays the same: the iconic Olympic stadiums. These amazing structures are more than places for athletic events. They also reflect the culture and identity of the host city. Let’s check out five of the most iconic Olympic stadiums ever built:

1. Panathenaic Stadium (Athens, Greece)

Built in 330 BC, the Panathenaic Stadium hosted the first modern Olympics in 1896. Made entirely of marble, it holds a special place in history as the birthplace of the marathon. This ancient arena is a testament to both athletic heritage and architectural grandeur.

2. Wembley Stadium (London, England)

Wembley Stadium, an iconic symbol of English football, has long been heralded as a landmark for sports and entertainment. Originally opened in 1923, the stadium underwent a significant redevelopment that was completed in 2007, resulting in a stunning venue that can accommodate up to 90,000 spectators. The stadium hosted the gold-medal matches at the 2012 OlympicGames football tournament. Its striking feature, the 134-metre high arch, not only enhances its visual appeal but also serves a vital structural purpose.

3. Bird's Nest (Beijing, China)

The Beijing National Stadium, affectionately known as the "Bird's Nest," emerged as a symbol of modern China during the 2008 Olympics. Its unique design, crafted by architects Herzog & de Meuron, features a captivating lattice structure that creates an optical illusion of lightness despite its massive size.

With a seating capacity of 91,000, this architectural marvel has evolved beyond its Olympic roots to become a cultural landmark, hosting concerts and exhibitions. It represents the nation's rapid economic and technological advancements.

4. Allianz Arena (Munich, Germany)

The Allianz Arena, home to two of Germany's most renowned football clubs, Bayern Munich and TSV 1860 Munich, is an architectural marvel that captures the spirit of modern German design. Designed by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron, it features a unique exterior made up of large panels that can be illuminated in different colours depending on which team is playing at home. With a capacity of over 75,000, this state-of-the-art stadium has hosted numerous high-profile events such as the FIFA World Cup.

5. Kengo Kuma's Japan National Stadium

The Olympic Stadium in Tokyo, constructed for the 2020 Olympics, showcases a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma, this state-of-the-art facility is characterised by its wooden lattice structure. It reflects Japan's commitment to sustainability and harmony with nature. With a capacity of 68,000, the stadium was the centerpiece of the 2020 Games, hosting the opening and closing ceremonies along with various athletic events. Its design pays homage to the historical significance of the original National Stadium while ushering in a new era of Japanese architectural excellence.