The stadium's namesake, Carlo Castellani, was deported to the Mauthausen-Gusen concentration camp for his anti-fascist political views.
Unlike many modern European stadiums designed specifically for football, the Castellani retains a traditional Olympic-style track, increasing the distance between fans and players.
The stadium has undergone several structural upgrades to comply with Serie A safety and capacity standards over the last two decades.
It is frequently referred to locally as the 'Castellani' rather than its full official name.
The venue has occasionally hosted matches for the Italian national youth teams.
The Carlo Castellani Stadium is a multi-purpose venue in Empoli, Italy, serving as the home ground for the Serie A football club Empoli FC. Opened in 1965, the stadium features an athletics track surrounding the pitch, a design characteristic of older Italian multi-sport venues. It has a total capacity of approximately 16,000 spectators following various renovations. The facility is named after Carlo Castellani, a former Empoli player and the club's all-time top scorer who died in a Nazi concentration camp in 1944. The stadium consists of four main stands: the Tribuna Inferiore and Superiore, the Maratona, and two curves (Curva Nord and Curva Sud). It remains one of the more compact venues in Italy's top football tier, offering close proximity between the stands and the playing surface.
The view from the top row of the Maratona stand provides a panoramic perspective of the entire pitch and the surrounding Tuscan hills.
Arrive early to experience the local fan culture near the entrance gates before kickoff.
Dress in layers if attending evening matches in winter, as the open-air design leaves spectators exposed to the elements.
Carry a valid photo ID, as it is strictly required for entry to all professional football matches in Italy.
Avoid attempting to purchase tickets at the stadium gates on match days as they are often sold out in advance online.
Open primarily on match days; restricted access to the pitch and locker rooms at all other times.
Strict anti-violence and anti-discrimination policies apply; bringing flares or smoke bombs is strictly prohibited.
