Ruy Lopez: Berlin Defense
ECO C65 · Ruy Lopez · solid · advanced
The Ruy Lopez: Berlin Defense (C65) is a solid chess opening in the Ruy Lopez family, played by Black. It arises after the moves 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6 4. O-O. The Berlin Wall. Ultra-solid, often with early queen exchange. Recommended for advanced players.
Moves: 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bb5 Nf6 4. O-O
About this opening
The Berlin Defense (3...Nf6) has become the symbol of modern solidity. After 4.O-O Nxe4 5.d4, the queen trade leads to the famous “Berlin Wall”, an endgame where Black accepts a slightly damaged structure but is almost impregnable. Vladimir Kramnik used it to neutralize Garry Kasparov in their 2000 match, making this defense one of the most reliable drawing weapons for Black.