32 Legendary College Stadiums That Celebrate More Than Just Football

2. The Palestra - The Birthplace of College Basketball Rivalries

Located on the University of Pennsylvania's campus in Philadelphia, The Palestra is often referred to as the "Cathedral of College Basketball." Opened in 1927, it is one of the oldest college basketball arenas in the United States and has hosted more games, visiting teams, and NCAA tournaments than any other facility. The Palestra is home to the Penn Quakers and serves as the hub for the Big 5, a unique city series involving Penn, La Salle, Saint Joseph's, Temple, and Villanova. The intense rivalries among these Philadelphia schools are steeped in tradition, with games often decided by narrow margins and unforgettable plays. The Palestra's intimate setting and storied history create an electric atmosphere, where the echoes of past legends and the roar of present-day fans make every game a testament to the enduring spirit of college basketball rivalries.