This medieval themed chess set will take you back to the life of the nobility during the Middle Ages. Kings, knights, queens, and castle turret chess pieces invoke the aesthetic of the period. The 15 inch board with walnut and maple color squares is intentionally distressed to match the antique-styled brown and ivory color chessmen. The chess pieces boast intricate detail and invoke celtic and 14th century aesthetics in their design. Modern chess was invented in Europe, based on an Arabic game (Shatranj) that was based on an Indian game (Chaturanga). During the Middle Ages it spread across Europe and evolved into the game we know and love today. Chess is a game of infinite variations and possibly the most challenging strategy game ever created. It has lasted through the centuries and is played in every corner of the world.