Valencia: Celebrating 550 Years of Modern Chess and Viswanathan Anand’s Visit

Valencian Parliament Declares May 15th Official Chess Day

The Valencian Parliament has taken a significant step by unanimously approving the designation of May 15th as the official Chess Day within the Autonomous Community of Valencia. This important initiative, discussed and supported by all political factions in the Education Committee of the City Parliament, highlights Valencia`s crucial role in the origins of modern chess and recognizes the numerous benefits associated with the game.

This declaration serves to commemorate the significant milestone of the 550th anniversary of the birth of modern chess in Valencia (1475–2025), a period currently being celebrated throughout 2025 with a variety of events and initiatives.

Sports spokesperson Eduardo Dolón underscored the historical importance of the poem Scachs d’amor (Valencia, circa 1475), which introduced the powerful new queen piece, fundamentally altering the game. He also mentioned the later, yet equally significant, Valencian contribution: the book by Francesch Vicent from Segorbe, printed in Valencia on May 15, 1495.

The date of May 15th was specifically chosen for the annual Chess Day because it marks the printing anniversary of the world`s first book dedicated to modern chess.

Key figures behind this decision, including Basilio López, president of the Valencia, Cradle of Chess Foundation; Emilio González, president of the Valencian Chess Federation; Rafael Martín, official chronicler of Segorbe; and José A. Garzón, author and chess historian, were present during the committee meeting.

This resolution represents a pivotal moment poised to significantly boost the promotion and development of chess across the Valencia region, serving as an enduring tribute to its profound legacy as the origin point and扩散中心 of modern chess.

Anand Visits the Birthplace of Modern Chess

A highly anticipated highlight of Valencia`s grand chess year, marking the 550th anniversary of modern chess (1475–2025), was the visit of five-time World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand on May 15th and 16th. Anand, a legend of global chess and currently the Deputy President of the International Chess Federation, was named Sportsman of the Millennium in India in 1998.

Local fans and leading Valencian players eagerly awaited his arrival, and the two eventful days, etched into collective memory, surpassed all expectations.

On May 15th, Valencia`s Mayor, María José Catalá, welcomed Anand, expressing pride in hosting a world chess icon during such a significant anniversary. The Mayor, well-informed about Valencia`s role in modern chess history, praised Anand`s humility and intuitive understanding of opponents, noting these qualities as inspiring. Discussions with Anand included exploring potential collaborations with the international federation to enhance global awareness of modern chess`s Valencian origins.

Visit to the Exhibition `Valencia, Origin of Modern Chess, 1475`

Later that afternoon, the five-time World Champion visited the permanent exhibition on chess history located at Valencia`s Petxina Sports and Culture Complex. Researcher José A. Garzón guided Anand through the exhibits, explaining how the new rules developed in Valencia spread across Europe, using reproductions of important historical documents.

Since 2022, the exhibition includes a large reproduction of a comic strip depicting the life and work of Francesc Vicent. The date May 15, 1495, is significant as it marks the printing of Vicent`s book in Valencian, which detailed the new rules of the game then known as Axedres de la Dama. These rules had been developed in Valencia about two decades earlier and documented in the poem Scachs d`amor (Valencia, circa 1475), a collaborative effort by three prominent Valencian poets: Bernat Fenollar, Narcís Vinyoles, and Francí de Castellví. The emergence and propagation of modern chess rules form Valencia`s enduring historical legacy.

Numerous enthusiasts of the game had the chance to meet their idol, receiving photos and autographs on books, magazines, and chessboards from one of history`s greatest players.

Anand`s visit also allowed him to explore Valencia`s rich past, history, and culture. He visited sites like the Cathedral of Valencia and the Holy Grail, the Silk Exchange, the Central Market, and the Church of San Nicolás. He also attended a session of the historic Water Tribunal, where he signed the Book of Honour. He expressed great enjoyment of the local cuisine.

On the second day, Pilar Bernabé, Government Delegate for the Autonomous Community of Valencia, welcomed him. She emphasized chess`s value as a complement to other sports and Valencia`s critical historical role due to the introduction of the new queen with its significantly expanded movement capabilities.

Masterclass at La Nau Cultural Centre

May 16th featured one of the key events of the 550th anniversary commemorations: a masterclass conducted by GM Anand at the University of Valencia`s La Nau Cultural Centre. Anand analyzed some of his most famous games, captivating a packed Aula Magna auditorium.

The event was moderated by Ester Alba, Vice-Rector for Culture and Society at the University of Valencia. Speakers included author and researcher José A. Garzón from the Valencia, Cradle of Chess Foundation, and Valencia`s Councillor for Sport, Rocío Gil, who presented Anand with a commemorative plaque. Also present were Mª Ángeles Vidal (FDM managing director), Basilio López (Foundation president), and Emilio González (Valencian Chess Federation president).

The session was highly interactive, with Anand encouraging audience participation by suggesting moves and plans in critical game positions. This showcased the creative thinking inherent in chess and the importance of strategic decision-making in complex situations.

Anand recalled using the Spanish Opening (Ruy López) in several games, highlighting its value for learning opening strategy and technique. Fittingly, after answering questions, Anand viewed a copy of the renowned 1561 book by Ruy López de Segura, preserved in the Historical Library of the University of Valencia. The book is currently displayed alongside a traveling exhibition reproducing content from the Petxina Complex`s chess room.

Throughout his visit, Anand was constantly approached for autographs and photos, delighting his many fans. He proved to be an outstanding ambassador for chess and its inherent values.

Anand impressed everyone with his chess mastery and his gracious demeanor, leaving an indelible positive impression on Valencia. While India`s ancient connection to chess is undeniable, this visit forged a significant link between the past and future of the game, creating an enduring connection between India and Spain through Valencia.