26 Stadiums Where Art and Architecture Collide in Spectacular Fashion

15. Estadio Nacional (Brazil) – A Monument of Sustainability

Brasilia’s Estadio Nacional Mané Garrincha is not just a breathtaking structure, but also one of the most environmentally sustainable stadiums in the world. Originally built in 1974 and completely rebuilt for the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the stadium’s bold circular design and towering colonnade evoke a sense of timeless grandeur. The row of 288 towering concrete pillars that encircle the stadium gives it the appearance of an ancient temple, blending modern minimalism with classical architectural influences. However, what makes Estadio Nacional truly revolutionary is its commitment to green architecture. The stadium features a massive solar panel system, which generates 100% of the energy it consumes, as well as a rainwater harvesting system that drastically reduces water waste. As the first stadium in the world to receive LEED Platinum certification, it serves as a benchmark for sustainable stadium design, proving that architectural brilliance can also be environmentally responsible.