The seventh edition of the International Chess Festival 'Ciutat de Silla' will transform the town into a global meeting point for chess enthusiasts. Projections indicate a surge in accommodation demand, compelling many visitors to seek lodging in neighboring municipalities, thus reinforcing the event's role as a tourism driver for the L'Horta Sud region.
The economic impact will be felt across local hotels, restaurants, cafes, and businesses, thanks to the presence of participants and their companions from Europe, America, Asia, and Oceania. The festival features three official competitions: the 5th International Tournament 'Ciutat de Silla', the 2nd IRT U-1800 'Ciutat de Silla', and the 8th International Blitz 'Ciutat de Silla', all to be held at the Falla Poble de Silla facilities.
International participation this year extends to 20 countries, including Spain, Colombia, Cuba, Russia, India, and Australia, among others. Furthermore, a substantial representation from various Spanish provinces and autonomous communities is anticipated, strengthening Silla's position as a central hub for national chess.
The sporting level is set to be exceptional, with 21 internationally titled players, including 6 International Masters (IM) and 7 FIDE Masters (FM). Notable participants include International Masters Rubén Domingo Núñez and Jhoel García, alongside prominent FIDE Masters, underscoring the festival's growth and significance in the chess calendar.
This year, the festival also highlights women's chess, with 14 registered female players, four of whom hold international titles, such as Women FIDE Masters Adriana Sermukhamedova (Kazakhstan) and Mayra Cabrera Ladrón de Guevara (Cuba). This participation aims to increase visibility and promote women's chess, providing role models for new generations of female players.
Under the slogan "Escac i mat a l'Alzheimer" (Checkmate to Alzheimer's), the festival maintains its social commitment, seeking to raise awareness about the disease and emphasize the cognitive benefits of chess. Participants will receive a medal inspired by Silla's traditional 'Dansa dels Porrots' and a backpack with chess equipment.
The Silla Chess Club has expressed gratitude for the support of the Mayor of Silla, Vicente Zaragozá, and the Councilor for Sports, Benigno Bodón, as well as the Chess Federation of the Valencian Community, the Provincial Council of Valencia, and the Valencian Regional Government, all key institutions for the consolidation of this event.




