Arco Hosts 22nd International Chess Festival, Drawing Top Players

This year again, for ten days, Arco will return to being the chess capital. From next Saturday until October 29, the 22nd edition of the International Chess Festival «Città di Arco» will take place, which since 1975 has annually attracted the world’s top chess players to the foot of the castle.

Participants and Competition Level

There are currently 140 players confirmed, although before the start of the tournament, the organizers hope to reach 170, as was the case last year. Among them are the best players in the world, representing 18 different nations.

This is a valid point, despite many champions being engaged in the upcoming Chess Olympiads taking place in Istanbul, Turkey. “Some great masters will not be able to join us” – explains the event organizer, Cristina Rigo – but the level of competition remains extremely high.

Among the champions who have chosen to attend Arco, overcoming significant difficulties caused by the challenging political situation in their countries, are Israeli Leonid Gofshtein, winner of the famous tournaments in Spain, and the Yugoslavian delegation, composed of Milan Drasko (second last year and best player of Montenegro) and Stefan Djuric. Among the notable names is the very young Luke McShane.

Sixteen-year-old, surprisingly already a grandmaster, the English player undoubtedly represents one of the great hopes of chess. “Even in the past” – explains Councillor Fabrizio Miori – players who later won the world championship have come from Arco.

Cultural and Tourist Impact

Beyond the competitive aspect, it is also important to note that the tournament serves as a significant promotional tool for tourism in Arco, attracting hundreds of visitors along with the champions each year. “Our stunning natural environment” – says Miori – is ideal not only for bikers or climbers but also for chess players.

Here, they find a climate and tranquility that are now well-known and appreciated in the global chess community.