The Origin of Backgammon!

Games of the Backgammon family have been played for thousands of years in all parts of the world and certainly during the Egyptian, Greek and Roman eras. The game may derive from the ancient Egyptian game of Senat, which was played on a set of 3 x 12 points with 3 x 6 sided dice. Popular in a variety of forms throughout history, backgammon was probably originally brought to England by men returning from the Crusades.

Like many games played for money, Backgammon was unpopular with the authorities in England for centuries and it wasn't until the reign of Elizabeth I that laws prohibiting the "playing of Tables in licensed establishments" were abolished. In the early seventeenth century, backgammon underwent a revival and swept across Europe. Thenceforth, backgammon remained the popular game that we know today.

There are different opinions regarding the derivation. Some people believe it derives from 'Baec', meaning back and 'Gamen', which means game. Others believe that it might have been derived from 'Back', which means little and 'Gammon', meaning battle.

Why are backgammon sets so expensive?

The price of the backgammon set is linked to the quality of materials, the skill of the craftsman and the brand.

They can be expensive because of the high quality materials and craftsmanship that goes into them. Luxury sets are often made from exotic woods like ebony and rosewood which are expensive to obtain. Handmade sets made by skilled artisans can take hours or even days to make and this is often reflected in the price.

What is the best size for a backgammon board?

There isn’t really a ‘best size’ and what size you should choose is down to personal preference and intended use. Standard tournament size boards are around 21 inches and are often preferred by serious players or those who want to play for long periods of time. Smaller boards may be more suitable for those with space constraints or those who want to take their backgammon sets on their travels.

Who makes the best backgammon sets UK?

Companies such as Manopolous, Dal Negro and Crisloid are well known brands that make high quality backgammon sets. They are famous for their craftsmanship and their backgammon sets are not only beautiful but also durable. They have a wide range of styles and classic designs to suit individual tastes.

Is backgammon good for the brain?

Backgammon involves strategic thinking and problem solving all of which can help improve cognitive function and memory. Playing games like backgammon is a fun and stimulating way to keep your mind active and challenged.