A modern concept of the "specialized" Circus Building!!!

Recent years have seen a boom in the construction of sports stadiums all over the world. Individual towns and sports clubs have tried to create their own brands with sheer size and spectacular architecture. But very few spend the time to think about tradition and the cultural context of the locations when planning such complexes. The Falcon Arena is something new and different.

The falconry exhibited in this arena combines the desert location and the cultural background of hawking, and makes these elements an integral part of the show. For those able to witness a falconry show at first-hand the experience is quite unforgettable.

Falconry is one of the oldest hunting forms known to man. It is thought to have emerged some 3,500 years ago in Central and Middle Asia, because it was the most suitable hunting form on the steppes with their complete lack of cover. It was actively pursued in a territory stretching from present-day Turkey right across to China.

Marco Polo, who stayed at the court of Kublai Khan in the 13th century, reported that the emperor set off with 10,000 falconers to hunt wolves, foxes and hares across the wide expanses of his empire. While this figure is probably exaggerated, it is certain that a very large number of falconers were attached to the court of the Mongol ruler.

The fascination of hunting with falcons continues right up to the present day.

The architectural interpretation of the stadium has created a space which provides an impressive framework for highlighting the pace of the hunt and the speed of falcons in full flight. The speed of flight is further accentuated through close proximity to the massive construction.

Falconry in all its variations can be demonstrated from many different sites within the complex. The wide open roof is ideal for displaying steep dives in all their variations.

Falcons can enter the arena directly through openings and then fly around the arena itself. Spectators develop a special relationship to the show as they are right at the heart of the action. The tower gallery surrounding the stage provides fascinating views of the action and features other important attractions of the arena.

The restaurant acts like a balcony to give an unimpeded view out over the desert and is glassed in behind movable panels to ensure a comfortable stay whatever the outside conditions.

The falcon zoo, in which falcons and other birds of prey are exhibited in biotopes corresponding to the various landscapes of the countries they come from, provides further insights into the rich cultural and historical background of falconry. Shops, the museum and other rooms are situated under the tower gallery.