Checkmate! An Epic Live Chess Battle Between the Connaught and Leinster Sides of Athlone
Experience the ancient game of chess brought to life for a modern audience in the newly regenerated public space between Athlone Castle and the River Shannon.
This symbolic setting, linking landscape, history and community, provides the ideal backdrop to reimagine Athlone’s friendly Connaught–Leinster rivalry. Children from Athlone and the surrounding area will don medieval-inspired costumes and become human “pieces” on a life-size chessboard. Youth players from local chess clubs will lead the action in this epic live chess battle between the Connaught and Leinster sides of Athlone. An International Grandmaster from Chess Bud Ireland will be in attendance, offering guidance throughout this dramatic contest of strategy and skill.
Once checkmate is declared, spectators will be invited to step forward and play their own games, either on the life-size chessboard or at standard chess stations in the area.
Booking in advance is required only for children who wish to take part as the live chess pieces.
This Heritage Week event, organised by Athlone Castle, County Westmeath, is supported by the Heritage Council under the Heritage Stewardship Fund 2026.
Additional Details
Organizer
Visit our 13th century castle and experience history brought alive…
Athlone Castle was first built to defend the crossing point on the River Shannon and evolved into a bold defensive structure over the centuries. Elements of the original castle can still be seen today.
We tell the story of settlement in this part of Ireland’s Ancient East, from the Neolithic period through Viking, and Medieval ages to modern life in Athlone.