The pitch was especially in perfect condition, allowing treble winners Barca to stroke the ball around in their trademark style and easily beat holders Manchester United 2-0 on Wednesday.
Despite having AS Roma or Lazio play there every week for the past nine months, the surface was as smooth as a Xavi pass.
Fans make atmospheres, but only in great stadiums can an occasion really come to life and the 67,000 sellout produced some wonderful colour from United's Matt Busby tribute to the sea of red, blue and yellow at the Barca end.
Indeed, United's surprising nervousness was the only let down of the night, which neutrals had dubbed 'the dream final' between Europe's best two attacking teams.
"It's true, Rome doesn't bring me luck," he told reporters. "We started well then after the first goal we suffered and we didn't play at the level we are used to."
Britain's Times newspaper called for the game to be switched to another venue because of fears of Roman gangs with knifes.
"Rome's future candidature for other international events depends on the success of this showpiece," mayor Gianni Alemanno said.
The ancient city, which hosts the world swimming championships in July, is mulling a possible Olympic bid for 2020 and Wednesday's flawless final is sure to help its case.
