The Father of Opening Theory: A Catholic Priest Played the First-Ever International Chess Tournament

In the mid-16th century, Father Ruy López de Segura, a Catholic priest from the small town of Zafra in Spain, became the “father of opening theory.”

During a summons to Rome by Pope Pius IV in 1559, López demonstrated his chess prowess against Italy’s finest, including Leonardo di Bona, an early Italian chess master.

Authored in 1561, his seminal work, “Book of the liberal invention and art of the game of Chess,” broke new ground in chess strategy, detailing what is now known as the Ruy López or Spanish opening.

By 1574, López was instrumental in organizing what is considered the first international chess tournament at the behest of King Philip II of Spain. Held near Madrid, it featured notable players like Paolo Boi, who once beat Pope Paul III in a chess match, and di Bona.

His victories during this period cemented his reputation across Europe and he was considered the foremost chess player of his time.

López laid the foundational theories of modern chess and his influence is still evident on the game today!

Photo credit: Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons