The Tehran Chess Association, in collaboration with the Chess Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, cordially invites all Asian chess players and chess enthusiasts worldwide to participate in the prestigious 6th Paytakht Cup International Chess Festival. This exciting event is scheduled to take place from August 5th to 12th, 2024, in the vibrant metropolis of Tehran, Iran.
Download the Prospectus for the Paytakht Cup (2024)
Festival Highlights
The Paytakht Cup, the biggest chess festival in the metropolis of Tehran, is an event of great significance in the international chess calendar. The word “Paytakht” means “the capital” in Persian, and hence, the “Paytakht Cup” translates to the “Capital Cup.” This festival has garnered immense prestige over the years, attracting numerous chess Grandmasters and offering a competitive edge that is unparalleled.
In previous editions, notable participants have included GM Alireza Firouzja, GM Parham Maghsoodloo, GM Amin Tabatabaei, GM Anton Demchenko, GM Alexandr Fier, GM Samvel Ter-Sahakyan, and GM Stanislav Bogdanovich, among others. The tournament has celebrated various champions over the years, such as GM Homayoon Toufighi in 2016, GM Anton Demchenko in 2017, GM Seyed Khalil Mousavi in 2018, GM Ehsan Ghaem Maghami in 2019, and GM Masoud Mosadeghpour in 2023.
The 6th Paytakht Cup International Chess Festival promises to be an exceptional event, continuing its tradition of excellence. This year’s festival will feature three main tournaments: Tournament A for players with a FIDE rating of 2100 or higher, Tournament B for players with a FIDE rating lower than 2100, and Tournament C for players under 14 years old. The schedule includes 9 rounds for Tournament A and 11 rounds for Tournaments B and C, all taking place from August 6 to 12, 2024. The Paytakht Cup is especially important for Iranian and Asian chess players, providing a platform to showcase their skills on an international stage.
The festival will be held at the luxurious 5-star Laleh International Hotel (formerly InterContinental Hotels & Resorts) in Tehran. This exquisite venue offers top-notch facilities for both players and spectators, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The hotel’s amenities make it the perfect setting for an international chess festival.
About Tehran
Tehran, the capital and largest city of Iran, boasts a population of approximately 12 million, making it the most populated city in Iran and Western Asia. It also ranks as the second-largest metropolitan area in the Middle East, following Cairo. This bustling metropolis serves as the political, cultural, and economic hub of the country, offering a vibrant blend of modernity and tradition.
Tehran is steeped in history, with roots tracing back to the Safavid dynasty in the 16th century. The city became Iran’s capital in the late 18th century during the Qajar dynasty. Today, it is a city of contrasts, where historical sites like the Golestan Palace and the Grand Bazaar stand alongside modern skyscrapers and contemporary art galleries. Tehran’s rich cultural scene includes numerous museums, such as the National Museum of Iran, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Carpet Museum, which showcase the nation’s diverse heritage and artistic achievements.
The city is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous theaters, music venues, and galleries. Tehran hosts several international film and theater festivals, reflecting its role as a cultural beacon in the region. The Tehran Symphony Orchestra, the oldest and largest in Iran, is a testament to the city’s thriving music culture.
This bustling city is home to people from many different ethnic backgrounds, which adds to its diverse food culture and lively streets. Tehran has a mix of busy markets and modern cafes, as well as peaceful parks and hiking trails in the nearby mountains. This combination of old and new offers a variety of experiences that show the city’s vibrant and constantly changing nature.
This summer, join the 6th Paytakht Cup International Chess Festival for an experience that promises unforgettable moments. Engage in thrilling chess battles, embrace the vibrant culture, and enjoy the renowned warm hospitality that Tehran has to offer. We eagerly await your presence for an epic chess showdown. See you in Tehran!