The oldest known board game is from ancient Egypt

he ancient Egyptian game of Senet, dating back to around 3500 BCE, holds the distinction of being the oldest known board game in the world. Discovered in Predynastic and First Dynasty burials, Senet's enduring legacy is closely followed by the Royal Game of Ur from ancient Mesopotamia, originating around 2600 BCE.

Played on a rectangular board with 30 squares arranged in three rows of ten, Senet was a favorite pastime of ancient Egyptian royalty, including Pharaoh Tutankhamun and Queen NefertariThe game's popularity spanned over 3,000 years of Egyptian history, with boards found in various materials such as wood, limestone, and faience. Although the exact rules have been lost to time, modern reconstructions based on historical texts allow enthusiasts to experience this ancient game. Senet's enduring legacy is evident in its representation in Egyptian art and its inclusion in burial chambers, suggesting its significance extended beyond mere entertainment to religious and symbolic realms.