MILAN -- The International Skating Union opened the ISU home of skating here on Saturday, creating a dedicated Olympic-time venue for athletes and the global skating community.

"With skating at the heart of the Olympic experience, we are proud to introduce the home of skating as a place that reflects our values, celebrates our athletes and brings our community together," ISU President Kim Jae-yeol said.

Chinese figure skater Chen Hongyi said the venue felt like a family gathering for those involved in the sport.

"It truly feels like one big family," Chen said. She added that the Olympic rings at the opening ceremony symbolized "a global family coming together in harmony," and expressed hope that the spirit of skating would inspire more people to take up the sport.

According to the ISU, during the Olympic period, the home of skating will host athletes, partners, broadcasters and other stakeholders. The federation estimates that more than 330 million people worldwide watch, follow or participate in ice skating.