Ruy Lopez de Segura was a Spanish priest and chess writer whose 1561 book analysed openings, including the bishop development now associated with his name. The opening is also called the Spanish Game. Its long history reflects the depth of the position after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bb5: an apparently simple developing move creates questions that remain relevant many moves later.
The bishop attacks the c6 knight, which helps defend e5. That does not mean White can automatically exchange on c6 and win the pawn. Black has tactical resources, and the timing of central captures matters. The strategic attraction is sustained pressure: White develops, prepares castling and asks Black how to maintain a secure centre.
Different Black replies produce very different games. The Berlin develops a knight to f6 and challenges e4. The Morphy Defence uses ...a6 to question the bishop. Closed systems keep tension while both sides improve their pieces; sharper branches can open the centre or offer material for activity. Learning the Spanish means understanding these choices rather than treating every Bb5 position alike.
Begin with the Morphy Defence and watch how the bishop retreats without losing its long-term influence. At each step, ask whether White is ready for d4 and whether Black can free the position with ...d5. That exercise connects the old opening idea to a practical skill: maintaining pressure while preparing a well-timed central action.
Try this at the board
Explain why attacking a defender of e5 is different from winning e5 immediately.