28 Forgotten Stadium Grounds Around The World Left Abandoned

18. Yuri Gagarin Stadium – Varna, Bulgaria

Yuri Gagarin Stadium in Varna, Bulgaria, was once a premier venue for Bulgarian football, boasting a capacity of 35,000. Named after the Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space, the stadium was a symbol of sports and progress in Bulgaria during the mid-20th century. It served as the home ground for PFC Spartak Varna, hosting numerous domestic league matches as well as international fixtures. Despite its historical significance, the stadium was closed in 2007 due to deteriorating conditions. The aging infrastructure failed to meet modern safety standards, and plans for renovations or a new stadium were never fully realized. Over time, the neglected structure became a victim of the elements, with overgrown weeds, rusting goalposts, and cracked concrete stands. Although discussions have emerged about potentially redeveloping the site, no concrete action has been taken. Today, Yuri Gagarin Stadium stands as an eerie monument to Bulgaria’s sporting past, a once-thriving arena now fading into obscurity.