Luna Park is at the center of a controversy after the approval of a renovation project approved in record time for the state bureaucracy. The proposal contemplates an increase in its capacity, which could imply the partial or total demolition of the venue. From historic monument to modern stadium, the debate has already begun.
What are the changes that Luna Park will undergo?
The National Commission of Monuments gave the green light to a project that seeks to transform Luna Park into a bigger stadium with more infrastructure. Despite having been declared a National Historic Monument in 2007, the project to transform Luna Park will increase its capacity from 8,400 to 13,000 spectators, in addition to incorporating VIP boxes, a subway parking lot and new gastronomic areas.
Although the aim is to preserve the spirit of Luna Park, the idea of modifying its structure generates uncertainty because it is an iconic building with a long history and the idea of demolishing or modifying it contradicts the spirit of its preservation. The last word on Luna Park will be left to the head of the Buenos Aires Government, Jorge Macri, and Pope Francis, since Luna Park belongs to the Catholic Church.
Why Luna Park is facing this renovation
The renovation plan is being promoted by DF Entertainment, which signed a 40-year concession contract. DF Entertainment is the entertainment company that, in recent years, made possible some of the most important concerts in Buenos Aires and Argentina. It is also the branch of Live Nation in Argentina.
Live Nation is one of the most important promoters of artists in the world. For example, the shows of Coldplay, Beyoncé, Metallica or the Rolling Stones depend on Live Nation and it is precisely this company that is also behind the modernization of the Luna Park Stadium.
Luna Park in the last decade: artists that marked an era.
Since its inauguration in 1932, Luna Park has been the scene of events that have marked Argentine culture and history. It was the epicenter of national boxing with legendary fights of Carlos Monzón and Nicolino Locche, and it also hosted Carlos Gardel’s wake in 1935. Its stage hosted memorable concerts by national artists such as Mercedes Sosa, Charly García and Soda Stereo, as well as international performances by Frank Sinatra, Queen and The Police.
Throughout its more than 90 years of history, the stadium has been the venue for political events, religious ceremonies and very important sporting events. The debate on the future of Luna Park is still open.