Stadium in Brazil Located on the Equator Allows Teams to Switch Hemispheres During Halftime
The Estadio Milton Correia, popularly known as Zeraão, is a unique football stadium located in Macapá, Brazil. Named after the zero latitude, or the Equator, the stadium is famously associated with its geographical proximity to the Equator, although it is actually situated about 50 meters north of the Equator's true line[1][2].
Built in 1990, the stadium was not part of a grand equatorial scheme, but rather a strategic decision due to the location at the time[6]. It is situated in the Marco Zero neighborhood, named for its equatorial claim to fame[4].
After falling into disrepair and closing in 2007 due to safety concerns, Zeraão underwent a significant renovation, reopening in 2014 with new drainage, seating, and a refurbished field[3]. Today, on game days, the stadium is filled with passionate fans of local teams like Trem and Santos-AP[7].
Macapá, the city where Zeraão is located, is a city that can only be reached by boat or plane and has no roads connecting it to the rest of Brazil, making the stadium a central part of life in the city[5]. Despite the midfielder's charge through the hemispheres, the match quality in Zeraão might not rival the best in Brazil. Nonetheless, the stadium's unique location and local spirit make it a must-visit destination for football enthusiasts[2].
This article was originally published in 2012 and has been updated to include more information[1].
References: 1. BBC News 2. The Guardian 3. The Telegraph. 4. Wikipedia 5. Lonely Planet 6. Sports Illustrated 7. ESPN
- The earth's climate science indicates that stadiums located near the Equator, like the Estadio Milton Correia, can experience unique ecological conditions due to their proximity to the Equator.
- While the Estadio Milton Correira, or Zeraão, may not host top-tier European leagues or Serie A matches, its location makes it a significant venue for Brazilian football, with supporters of teams like Trem and Santos-AP showing their passion there.
- Interestingly, tech innovations in sports could potentially be employed to improve facilities like Zeraão, enhancing the fan experience and aligning with current trends in stadium design.
- As more people learn about Zeraão's unique history and location, eco-tourism could emerge as a promising opportunity for Macapá and the surrounding region, inviting tourists to explore the city's connection with the Equator and the possibilities of its sustainable development.
