Valencia, Spain – This vibrant city is marking a significant historical milestone: the 550th anniversary of what is widely considered the birth of modern chess. As part of extensive celebrations planned throughout 2025, Valencia recently hosted a distinguished guest, five-time World Chess Champion and current FIDE Deputy President, Viswanathan Anand.
The commemoration centers around a pivotal period in the late 15th century when, in Valencia, the rules of chess underwent a revolutionary change. The Queen piece, previously having limited movement, was granted its current, powerful capabilities. This transformation fundamentally altered the game`s dynamics, ushering in the era of modern chess.
An Official Day for the Royal Game
Adding weight to Valencia`s historical claim, the Valencian Parliament has officially decreed May 15th as the annual Chess Day within the Autonomous Community. This decision, which received unanimous cross-party support, recognizes the profound cultural and educational significance of chess.
The choice of May 15th is no arbitrary date. It commemorates the printing on this day in 1495, in Valencia, of the first known book detailing these new, modern rules. Authored by Francesch Vicent of Segorbe, this text followed the earlier conceptualization of the powerful Queen, believed to have been first documented around 1475 in the Valencian poem Scachs d’amor (Chess of Love), a collaboration by three local poets.
This formal recognition serves as a lasting tribute to Valencia`s contribution and aims to boost the promotion and development of chess across the region.
A Legend Visits the Cradle
The highlight of the recent celebrations was undoubtedly the visit of Viswanathan Anand on May 15th and 16th. Anticipation for the arrival of the chess icon was high, and the visit reportedly surpassed expectations, leaving a lasting impression on attendees and the city itself.
Anand was officially welcomed by Valencia`s Mayor, María José Catalá, who acknowledged the honor of hosting such a renowned figure during this important anniversary. Discussions included potential future collaborations with the international chess federation to further global awareness of Valencia`s historical link to the game.
Exploring History and Sharing Wisdom
During his stay, Anand delved into the city`s chess heritage. He visited the permanent exhibition dedicated to the history of chess at the Petxina Sports and Culture Complex, where researcher José A. Garzón explained the key documents and developments illustrating the transition to modern rules and their subsequent spread.
A major public event was Anand`s masterclass at the University of Valencia`s La Nau Cultural Centre. Analyzing some of his famous games, he engaged the packed Aula Magna audience, inviting participation and offering insights into the strategic thinking and decision-making inherent in chess. He specifically referenced the Spanish Opening (Ruy López), noting its value for learning strategy.
Fittingly, Anand had the opportunity to view a copy of Ruy López de Segura`s 1561 book – one of the most significant early texts on the modern game – held within the university`s historical library. It`s a curious loop of history: the game`s modern rules emerging in Valencia, documented in a Valencian book, then elaborated upon by a Spanish player whose work Anand, an Indian legend, discusses centuries later back in Valencia.
Beyond the official events, Anand also took time to experience Valencia`s rich cultural tapestry, visiting historical sites like the Cathedral, the Silk Exchange, and attending a session of the unique Tribunal de las Aguas.
An Indelible Link
Anand`s visit, marked by his evident mastery and gracious interaction with countless fans seeking autographs and photos, reinforced the connection between India, a land with ancient ties to the game`s origins, and Spain, specifically Valencia, where chess underwent its most significant transformation. It was a powerful symbol of chess history coming full circle, celebrating its past while inspiring its future.
The 550th anniversary celebrations, spearheaded by initiatives like the official Chess Day and highlighted by the presence of a global icon, aim to cement Valencia`s rightful place in the narrative of chess history and promote the game`s enduring value to a wider audience.
