Valencia Celebrates 550 Years: The Reign of the Modern Chess Queen

Valencia, Spain – A city steeped in history and culture, Valencia is currently celebrating a unique claim to fame: being the undisputed birthplace of modern chess. As the year 2025 approaches, marking the 550th anniversary of this pivotal moment (1475–2025), the region is putting its historical chess heritage firmly on the global board.

An Official Recognition: Chess Gets Its Day

Solidifying this historical significance, the Valencian Parliament recently took a noteworthy step, decreeing May 15th as the official Chess Day throughout the Autonomous Community of Valencia. This wasn`t just a polite nod to a dusty historical footnote; the initiative sailed through the Education Committee with rare unanimous support from all political factions. Speakers across the political spectrum highlighted both the undeniable Valencian origins of modern chess and the myriad benefits the game brings to its players.

The choice of May 15th is highly specific. It commemorates the exact date in 1495 when the world`s first book on modern chess was printed. Authored by Francesch Vicent from Segorbe, this groundbreaking work, written in Valencian, codified the rules of the game that had evolved in the region approximately two decades earlier. Its predecessor, the poem Scachs d’amor (Valencia, circa 1475), is credited with introducing the revolutionary concept of the powerful, wide-ranging queen – a change that forever transformed chess from a slower, more constrained game into the dynamic battle of wits we know today.

The driving forces behind this official recognition – representatives from the Valencia Cuna del Ajedrez (Valencia, Cradle of Chess) Foundation, the Valencian Chess Federation, historical chroniclers, and dedicated researchers like José A. Garzón – were present to see this significant resolution passed. It`s a move designed not just to honor the past but to actively promote and develop chess within the region, establishing a lasting tribute to Valencia`s grand legacy.

A Champion`s Homage: Viswanathan Anand Visits the Cradle

Adding a touch of modern royalty to the historical narrative, five-time World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand, a true legend of the game and currently Deputy President of FIDE, recently visited Valencia on May 15th and 16th as part of the 550th-anniversary celebrations. His presence was highly anticipated, and by all accounts, the visit exceeded expectations, leaving an indelible mark.

Anand received a warm welcome from Valencia`s Mayor, María José Catalá, who expressed immense pride in hosting such a distinguished guest. The Mayor, clearly briefed on the city`s chess history, noted Anand`s “humility and intuition” as inspiring qualities, directly linking his visit to the milestone anniversary and Valencia`s claim to modern chess.

Exploring the Origins

During his stay, Anand made a point of visiting the permanent exhibition dedicated to the history of chess at the Petxina Sports and Culture Complex. Guided by researcher José A. Garzón, Anand examined reproductions of key historical documents, including the poem Scachs d`amor and insights into Francesc Vicent`s book, understanding firsthand how the revolutionary rules, particularly the queen`s newfound freedom, originated and spread from Valencia.

Anand also took time to soak in the city`s vibrant history and culture, visiting landmarks like the Cathedral, the Silk Exchange, and the Church of San Nicolás. He even attended a session of the historic Tribunal de las Aguas (Water Court), demonstrating a keen interest in Valencia`s unique traditions – and apparently enjoying the local cuisine, a vital part of any successful visit.

Masterclass from a Master

A highlight of Anand`s visit was undoubtedly the masterclass held at the University of Valencia`s La Nau Cultural Centre. The Aula Magna was packed with enthusiastic fans eager to learn from the legend. Moderated by the University`s Vice-Rector for Culture and Society, the session saw Anand dissecting some of his most famous games, offering insights into the strategic thinking and decision-making processes that define elite chess.

In a fitting nod to the location, Anand discussed his experiences with the Spanish Opening (Ruy López), noting its value for learning strategy. He later viewed a copy of the 1561 book by Ruy López de Segura held at the University`s Historical Library – a tangible link between historical chess theory and modern grandmaster practice, right there in the city where the key rule changes took hold.

Beyond the official events, Anand generously interacted with fans, signing autographs and posing for photos, proving to be a superb ambassador for the game. His visit forged a symbolic bridge, connecting India`s deep-rooted chess culture with Spain`s pivotal historical contribution via Valencia.

As Valencia steps further into its 550th anniversary year, the official Chess Day decree and Viswanathan Anand`s memorable visit serve as powerful reminders of the city`s profound and lasting impact on the game played by millions worldwide. The powerful queen reigns, and Valencia remembers where her dominion truly began.