The Clash of Generations and the Chess Roads Exhibition together mark an iconic international chess and cultural event. Set to take place in June 2025 at La Versiliana in Pietrasanta, Tuscany, Italy. This initiative brings together the world’s largest generation gap matchup, Anand Viswanathan vs. Faustino Oro.
When Is the Clash of Generations?
The Clash of Generations is the opening game scheduled on 1 June 2025. Its symbolic match features legendary Indian GM and five-time World Champion Viswanathan Anand facing off against Faustino Oro, a 10-year-old prodigy from Argentina.
Anand is a chess icon and is widely regarded as the greatest player in history, while Oro is often called “Messi of chess” and is celebrated all around the world as the world’s most prominent talents. The winner of this match will go on to play against twenty invited guests, adding an element of excitement.
What Is Chess Roads Exhibition?
The Chess Roads Exhibition starts on 2 June and will end on 15 June, and will be open to the public at La Versiliana. The exhibition is a showcase of 40 rare and historic chess sets from Asia and Europe, spanning from the late 1700s to the present day. Corrado Ciano, one of Italy’s most important collectors, and Giovanni Longo have brought together this iconic collection.
It’s a historical moment in the history of chess and the Versilia festival. Paola Rovellini, the President of Versiliana Foundation, said, “Since its beginning—now in its 46th edition—La Versiliana has offered refined entertainment, reflection, dialogue, and constant innovation for both locals and visitors who choose Versilia as their beloved destination. It’s in the DNA of one of Italy’s longest-running festivals to seek renewal. The chess world and its sporting culture represent a new path we’re excited to explore—looking to the future and working with excellence.”
Minister of Tourism, Daniela Santanchè, said, “The Clash of Generations match between Anand and Oro and the exhibition of some of the world’s finest chessboards, held at La Versiliana, are important for many reasons—not least for offering families a unique chance to spend meaningful time together. I hope to attend this beautiful initiative, and I thank and congratulate Mayor Alberto Giovannetti, Paola Rovellini, and the entire Versiliana Foundation for this inspiring project.”
The Clash of Generations and Chess Roads Exhibition mark a significant moment for chess, blending top-level competition. The event not only honours the game but also showcases a blend of chess and its rich history.
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