BOBBY FISCHER-CHESS MASTER IN SELFOSS
When we think of Bobby Fischer, the first images that come to mind are grand tournaments in Reykjavik, New York, or Buenos Aires, full of tension and chess genius. Few people know, however, that the story of one of the greatest chess players of all time has a lesser-known Icelandic chapter- in the charming town of Selfoss.
A Solitary Genius Among Icelandic Fields Bobby Fischer, the American World Chess Champion, became famous not only for his extraordinary talent but also for his eccentric personality and controversial choices. After years away from the international stage in the 1960s and 70s, Fischer found in Iceland a place that offered peace, anonymity, and… inspiration. Selfoss, situated along the Ölfusá River, far from the bustle of Reykjavik, became a kind of sanctuary for him.
Chess and Local Legend Although Fischer’s stay in Selfoss was not connected to major tournaments, his presence left a lasting impression on the local community. Residents remember him as mysterious, somewhat reclusive, yet intensely focused on the game. Local stories claim that Fischer often walked along the river, contemplating his next moves, and sometimes spontaneously sat down at tables in nearby cafés to play with locals – though no one ever seemed to have a chance at winning.
Why Selfoss? Iceland had long been a welcoming place for Fischer. It was here, in 1972, that he played the historic match against Boris Spassky, which changed the chess world forever. Selfoss, though smaller and less famous, offered something equally valuable: peace and a connection to nature. The town, known for its hot springs and picturesque landscapes, provided perfect conditions for the mind of a chess master to recharge.
Fischer’s Legacy in Selfoss Today in Selfoss, even though Fischer no longer lives there, traces of his presence remain. Local chess clubs and educational organizations often celebrate his visits, and tourists from around the world come to experience the atmosphere of the town that once inspired him. Fischer in Selfoss became a symbol of the meeting between genius and simple community life – a reminder that even a world champion sometimes needs a moment of quiet. Selfoss will always hold a special place in chess history as a small but significant stop in the life of one of the game’s greatest icons.