Favourite games through the ages

Dice and board games stood out in antiquity; chess and tablas (tables games) in the Middle Ages; and playing cards in Spain’s Golden Age. Dominoes and billiards took centre stage in 19th-century cafés, while parchís (Spanish ludo) and la oca (the Game of the Goose) became household favourites in the 20th century. In the 21st century, video games and online games have taken over as the favourites.

Antiquity

Dice, knucklebones and board games were the most popular choices. The world’s oldest board game dates back thousands of years.

The Middle Ages

Chess was the game of the nobility; dice were the people’s choice (and the most frequently banned). Playing cards arrived towards the end of this era. Playing cards in the Middle Ages.

Spain’s Golden Age

Cards were everywhere: in gambling dens, noble households and even the works of Cervantes. Leisure in Spain’s Golden Age.

The 19th century

Cafés and casinos filled with games of dominoes, billiards and cards. The cafés where games went on forever.

The 20th century

Parchís and la oca became household essentials, while Mus (a Spanish card game) and Tute (a Spanish card game) reigned supreme in bars.

The 21st century

Screens, mobiles and online matches. Interestingly, though, the old favourites are still around: you can play them at Lascuarenta.