The nickname 'El Templo de Madera' refers to the extensive use of wood in the stadium's construction, which is a rarity in modern stadium design.
The venue served as the site for the first-ever television broadcast of a football match in Argentina in 1951.
It has hosted international rugby matches for the Argentina national team, the Pumas, due to the proximity of the field to the stands.
The stadium's architectural design includes original terraced wooden bleachers that date back several decades.
The club, Ferro Carril Oeste, was founded by employees of the Buenos Aires Western Railway, explaining the stadium's name and location near rail infrastructure.
Estadio Arquitecto Ricardo Etcheverri, known popularly as 'El Templo de Madera' or 'The Wooden Temple', is the historic home stadium of Club Ferro Carril Oeste. Located in the Caballito neighborhood of Buenos Aires, it is one of the few remaining major stadiums in Argentina that retains original wooden grandstand structures. The stadium has a capacity of approximately 24,000 spectators and is a landmark of mid-20th-century Argentine football architecture. It was inaugurated in 1905 and named after the architect who designed its expansion. Beyond football, the venue has historically hosted major rugby union matches and cultural events. The pitch is surrounded by these unique wooden structures that create a distinct acoustic environment compared to modern concrete stadiums. As of June 2026, the stadium remains active for Primera Nacional league matches.
From the lower rows of the grandstands to capture the unique texture and historic geometry of the wooden structure.
Check the official Club Ferro Carril Oeste website or social media channels for match day schedules and ticket release dates.
Arrive well before kick-off if you want to observe the architectural details of the wooden stands before they are obscured by crowds.
Dress in casual, comfortable clothing appropriate for a crowded sports environment.
Do not attempt to enter the stadium on match days without a pre-purchased ticket as they often sell out for popular fixtures.
Operations are dictated by the AFA (Argentine Football Association) tournament calendar; the stadium is closed to the public on non-match days.
Avoid wearing clothing associated with rival football clubs. Obey security staff directions regarding restricted access to the pitch and older wooden sections.
