It was opened on August 26, 1952, during the Plan Serena (project directed by President Gabriel González Videla) to replace the old field of La Vega.

[2] The name "La Portada" is related to the old and large stone doorway that gave access to the city in colonial times, which was located at the intersection of the current Balmaceda and Amunátegui avenues.

This access was part of the 18th century fortifications, walls and artillery pieces that protected La Serena along the entire axis of current Amunátegui Avenue.

The stadium is owned and operated by the and has also hosted other non-sports events such as La Serena Song Festival.

This changed when Club de Deportes La Serena became professional in 1955 and grass was planted.