Samlad National Stadium

The Samlad National Stadium is one of the largest single buildings in the country and the location for various national ceremonies. It has a very large glass central dome, under which the main stadium with all its seats is found. This is surrounded by smaller domes, both full and partial, under which are found a number of small museums devoted to the art and history of the country, dining facilities, gift shops, and a number of other more boring things. Outside, the stadium is surrounded by a number of impressive fountains fed by the hot springs that well up nearby, and a belt of green gardens. These gardens have a number of plants that can typically only be grown much further north or in greenhouses, but here they are sustained by the warm spring waters. These hot springs are the same ones that supply the nearby National Dragon Hatchery.

Purpose / Function

The stadium was built as a place for hosting ceremonies and events of national significance. Inaugurations, speeches, civil and military award ceremonies, and holiday observances are some of the most common.

Alterations

The stadium had to be completely rebuilt after the original building was destroyed in a great fire. The architects took this opportunity to make the stadium much larger and more ornate. The original was primarily made from wood, but the new made extensive use of imported green marble.

Architecture

The outside of the building is mostly green marble accented by white trimming and statuary. The minor domes and some other architectural details are covered with gold leaf that must be periodically repaired. There is a lot of visible stonework in the interior as well, mostly white marble with some cedar wood. There are a number of intricate stained glass windows, mostly depicting historical scenes. The large central dome is made of glass.

Type

Stadium