World Chess Presents the First-Ever Chess Map

The Map

LONDON, United Kingdom – World Chess has unveiled the first-ever chess map of the world. This thoughtfully crafted piece charts the global reach of chess openings, pairing the art of cartography with the game’s storied history. It’s geography, but with a strategic twist.

The island of Sicily, for instance, earns its place with the formidable Sicilian Defense—a choice opening for those who favor a bold, uncompromising game. Across the map, England plays host to the English Opening, a nod to its Victorian-era champion, Howard Staunton, while the Scandinavian Defense secures a northern stronghold, reflecting the opening’s sharp, unyielding character.

"We wanted to create something that appeals to the discerning chess player and the design-conscious alike," says Ilya Merenzon, CEO of World Chess. "This map captures chess’s deep connections to various cultures and places, offering a visual history that’s as informative as it is beautiful."

Printed in Berlin on museum-quality Hahnemühle paper—one of Europe’s oldest paper manufacturers—the map brings over 150 chess openings to life, from the bold Latvian Gambit to the pragmatic Berlin Defense. The level of detail and craftsmanship makes it a refined addition to any study or a standout centerpiece in a library. Designed by Yuri Gordon and featuring the elegant King’s Game typeface from Letterhead Studio, this limited-edition piece is available now on the World Chess shop.

You can find more informaton about the map on the project page.