Wembley Stadium, originally known as the Empire Stadium, stands as a symbol of both sporting achievement and architectural brilliance. Located in Wembley, London, the president of the FA at the time, Sir John Gordon, first envisioned the stadium himself as part of the British Empire Exhibition intended to showcase British success to the global audience. Designed by the renowned architect Sir Edwin Lutyens, the stadium featured a distinctive design that included a remarkable steel and concrete structure large enough to accommodate thousands of spectators. The grand opening on April 28, 1923, coincided with the FA Cup Final, earmarking its significance in England’s sporting culture.

The inaugural match between Bolton Wanderers and West Ham United is etched in football lore not merely because of the match itself but due to the unprecedented crowd. Estimates indicate that over 300,000 fans attended the event, far surpassing the stadium's official capacity of 127,000. The overwhelming number of attendees turned into a security challenge, leading to legendary scenes of mounted police, referred to as the 'White Horse,' helping to manage the crowd and maintain order. This historic final ended with Bolton Wanderers defeating West Ham 2-0, sealing its place in the annals of sports history.

The symbolism and cultural significance of Wembley elevated it not just as a sporting venue but as a national landmark. Over the years, it has hosted an array of events ranging from football matches to concerts and ceremonies, cementing its reputation as a premier entertainment venue. The distinctive arch added during the 2007 redevelopment now represents the modern era of Wembley as much as past glories did.