Zeppelinfeld (Zeppelin Field), Nuremberg

Zeppelin Field (Zeppelinfeld) is a historical site located east of the Great Road in Nuremberg. It features a monumental grandstand called Zeppelin Main Grandstand (Zeppelinhaupttribüne), spanning 360 meters in width, accompanied by a smaller stand. The design of the grandstand, one of Albert Speer's early works for the Nazi party, draws inspiration from the Pergamon Altar and incorporates architectural elements influenced by Franco-American architect Paul Philippe Cret.

The site gained historical prominence due to its use during the Nazi era and is notably remembered for the iconic image of the swastika being demolished from atop the grandstand in 1945, marking the fall of Nazi Germany in World War II. The name of the field originates from a 1909 event when Ferdinand Graf von Zeppelin landed his airship LZ6 at this location.

Post-World War II, the field was repurposed, and from 1947 to 1995, it served as the home field for the Nurnberg American High School, where it was known as 'Soldiers Field.' It was used for various sports including high school and American football. In 1967, the city authorities undertook the demolition of the grandstand’s double row of pillars, which significantly damaged the structure, although the main part of the stand remains and has been incorporated into the Norisring motor racing track.

Throughout the 1980s, Zeppelin Field also hosted the German leg of the Monsters of Rock, a traveling heavy metal festival. It continues to be utilized by the Nuremberg Rams American Football team and houses a campground.

Tip:
If you go by yourself and not with a tour guide, please no Nazi salutes or Heil Hitlers or you could get arrested.