Schilbergstadion

Lore & Background

Before the modern era of the BayArena, the Schilbergstadion was the beating heart of Bayer Leverkusen. Opened in the late 1950s, it provided a proper home for a club that had previously played on makeshift grounds. The stadium's location on the hill offered a unique vantage point over the city and the surrounding industrial landscape, creating an intimate setting where players and fans were separated by little more than a few meters.

During its brief but pivotal tenure, the Schilbergstadion witnessed the early struggles and triumphs that characterized the club's ascent. It was in this ground that the first local rivalries took shape, with matches against nearby teams drawing fervent crowds who sang their hearts out despite the modest facilities. The atmosphere was raw and unpolished, yet it possessed a genuine warmth that defined the relationship between the workers of Bayer AG and their football team.

Although the stadium was quickly succeeded by the BayArena to accommodate growing ambitions, the memories formed on its grass remain etched in club lore. Stories passed down through generations speak of muddy pitches after rain, the roar of the crowd echoing off the hillside, and the sense of unity that bound the community together. The Schilbergstadion stands as a testament to the humble origins from which the 'Werkself' rose.

In Their Own Story

The autumn air bit at the faces of the fans gathered on the terraces of the Schilbergstadion in 1958. Below, the pitch was a patchwork of green and brown, worn down by weeks of play, but the energy in the stands was electric. As the whistle blew for kick-off, a collective cheer rose from the hillside, drowning out the distant hum of the factories below. For these early supporters, this wasn't just a game; it was their pride, their community, and their home. Every tackle felt personal, every goal a shared victory that would be celebrated in the canteens and streets of Leverkusen for days to come.

Reader's Guide

The atmosphere at Schilbergstadion games was defined by an intimate, almost familial connection between players and supporters. With limited seating and steep terraces, fans were close enough to hear the captain's instructions on the pitch. This proximity fostered a unique culture where the distinction between 'us' and 'them' blurred; everyone was part of the Bayer family.

Supporters played a crucial role in the club's early history by providing unwavering loyalty during difficult times. Their chants were simple but heartfelt, often reflecting the industrial roots of the city. Rituals included gathering before matches to share stories of past glories and singing traditional songs that honored the workers who built the company.

Unique cultural symbols from this era include the original club colors worn proudly by fans in a time when kits were less flamboyant. The hillside location itself became a symbol, with fans climbing the slopes to get the best view, creating a visual spectacle of unity against the backdrop of the Leverkusen skyline.

Did You Know?

• The Schilbergstadion was the first dedicated football stadium built specifically for Bayer Leverkusen.
• It hosted matches during the club's transition from an amateur works team to a professional entity.
• The stadium's location on the Schilberg hill offered panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.
• Its legacy is preserved in the hearts of fans as the birthplace of the 'Werkself' identity.