This opening is defined by the position shown on the board below. The moves displayed are a typical sequence that leads to it, but different sequences can reach the same position and still carry the same opening name.
Ruy Lopez: Closed
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 a6 4. Ba4 Nf6 5. O-O Be7 6. Re1 b5 7. Bb3 O-O
FEN: r1bq1rk1/2ppbppp/p1n2n2/1p2p3/4P3/1B3N2/PPPP1PPP/RNBQR1K1 w - - 2 8
The Closed Ruy Lopez is a classic and highly respected chess opening that arises after White retreats the bishop to b3 following Black’s ...a6 and Black castles kingside. This setup is characterized by White's focus on controlling the center with pawns and pieces, while maintaining pressure on Black's queenside and central position.
From White’s perspective, the opening is primarily attacking. White aims to build a strong central presence with pawns on e4 and d4 (often played later), and create piece activity targeting Black’s center and kingside. Black, conversely, plays a solid and somewhat defensive setup, seeking to complete development safely and counterattack when the position allows.
The opening definitely attacks the center. White exerts pressure on central squares, especially d5 and e5, using pawns and pieces, while Black contests the center with moves like ...d6 and ...d5 in some variations. The struggle for central control is a key theme in the Closed Ruy Lopez.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Ruy Lopez: Closed, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 7 - Move #10 white
You can also discover how top players used Ruy Lopez: Closed to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.