A historic chess book from the Savina Monastery in Herceg Novi reveals Montenegro’s enduring connection to the game. The book, known as the “četvoroazbučnik,” is believed to have been printed in Russia in 1692 and has served as an educational tool for generations in the region. This 41-page primer, adorned with over 400 illustrations, has been preserved as a priceless artifact, regarded with the utmost reverence. Local lore even suggests that the famous Montenegrin poet Petar II Petrović Njegoš learned to read from this very book.
Among its notable features is a drawing of a chessboard alongside the word “шахматы” in Russian, indicating that chess was known in Montenegro long before modern times. Research conducted by Dr. Niko S. Martinović indicates that the Montenegrins were familiar with chess as early as 300 years ago. Furthermore, travel writings from Ljuba Nenadović nearly two centuries ago confirm that Njegoš was an avid chess player.
In the late 19th century, legal references highlight the game’s popularity. The renowned lawyer Valtazar Bogisić included a paragraph in the 1882 Property Code of Montenegro allowing for wagers on chess and other games. This implies that chess was not only played but also recognized legally in the Principality of Montenegro.
Despite the evident cultural significance, chess did not feature prominently in Montenegrin press during that era. Travel accounts from foreign visitors often captured the nuances of daily life in Montenegro, including the game played in the Cetinje “Lokanda,” revealing a fascination with chess that locals might have overlooked.
The first chess champion of Montenegro, Božidar Kažić, emerged in the immediate post-war years, marking a new era for chess in the region. Kažić was not just a gifted player; he was also a notable journalist with a distinguished career at Tanjug and an international chess arbiter. His contributions to the game included serving as a leading figure in the Yugoslav Chess Federation and later as a vice-president of the World Chess Federation (FIDE).
Kažić’s efforts to document the history of chess in Yugoslavia culminated in his book “Građa za istoriju jugoslovenskog šaha,” which combines personal anecdotes and historical accounts. This text serves as a crucial resource for understanding the evolution of chess in the region.
The legacy of chess in Montenegro is also linked to the notable player Svetozar Gligorić, who became one of the most successful chess players in Yugoslavia’s history. Gligorić, who lost his parents during World War II, was adopted by Niko Miljanić, a renowned surgeon and prominent figure in the Montenegrin Partisan movement. Miljanić’s influence was significant, as he nurtured Gligorić’s talent, allowing him to join the Partisans at the age of sixteen.
In November 1944, as Cetinje was liberated, Gligorić and Kažić returned to the city, setting the stage for a chess renaissance. They quickly garnered support from the local community, particularly from national hero Veljko Zeković, a former football player turned Partisan. Kažić took on the role of chess representative in Cetinje, while Gligorić was appointed to oversee chess for all of Yugoslavia.
The first official chess championship of Montenegro took place in 1946, with Kažić emerging victorious, two points ahead of his closest competitor. This event marked a pivotal moment in the re-establishment of chess in the region, following the tumultuous years of war.
Reflecting on the rich history of chess in Montenegro, it becomes clear that figures like Kažić and Gligorić were instrumental in shaping the country’s chess narrative. Their legacies, intertwined with cultural and political upheaval, highlight the resilience of chess as a symbol of intellectual prowess and community spirit.
Gligorić continued to thrive not just as a chess player but also as a journalist, with a passion for music that led him to release an album in 2011, celebrating his life experiences. This album, titled “Kako sam preživeo 20. vek,” blends various musical genres, showcasing his eclectic interests.
Chess in Montenegro has a vibrant history rooted in cultural pride, intellectual engagement, and community solidarity. As we uncover the stories behind the game, we celebrate a tradition that has shaped the lives of many and continues to inspire future generations. The chess legacy in Montenegro is not merely about the game itself; it embodies the spirit of a nation that has weathered challenges, embraced learning, and fostered connections through the centuries.
