National Stadium of Jamaica

National Stadium of Jamaica Review

Constructed in 1962, this 35,000-seat arena (nicknamed "the Office") hosts national and international soccer matches. It's the home of Jamaica's national team, dubbed the "Reggae Boyz," which made strong showings in world competitions several years ago. One of the statues in front of the main entrance honors not a soccer star, but music legend Bob Marley. Marley's monument pays homage to an iconic moment in Jamaican history. During the 1970s, Jamaica was torn by political unrest when the ruling Jamaican Labor Party met a strong challenge by the rival People's National Party. Armed gangs representing the parties engaged in open warfare in the streets. On April 22, 1978, Bob Marley and the Wailers were performing at the packed stadium. During the song "Jammin'," Marley called for the leaders of both parties to join him on the stage. As the band continued playing the song, Marley made a spirited plea for peace and unity. For the night, at least, civility and harmony prevailed in the battered streets of Kingston.