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The classic bishop sacrifice on h7 to expose the enemy king

Updated: 1/24/2024

Greek Gift Sacrifice

The Greek Gift is a classic attacking pattern involving a bishop sacrifice on h7 (or h2), followed by a knight check and a devastating attack on the exposed king.

Classic Pattern

The Sacrifice

White plays Bxh7+ (or Black plays Bxh2+), sacrificing the bishop.

King Capture

The king is forced to capture: Kxh7.

Knight Check

A knight gives check, usually from g5 (or g4 for Black).

Winning Attack

The exposed king faces a mating attack or significant material loss.

Requirements

  1. Bishop on Diagonal: Positioned to reach h7/h2
  2. Knight Support: Ready to jump to g5/g4
  3. Queen Available: To join the attack
  4. Weak King Position: Enemy king hasn't castled queenside

Typical Continuation

After Bxh7+ Kxh7, Ng5+ the king must move:

  • If Kg8, then Qh5 threatens mate
  • If Kg6, the king is dangerously exposed
  • If Kh6, the king walks into danger

When It Works

  • Enemy king has limited defenders
  • Your pieces can quickly join the attack
  • The opponent's pieces are poorly placed
  • You have sufficient attacking force

When It Fails

  • The opponent has adequate defenders
  • Your follow-up is insufficient
  • The opponent can counter-attack
  • You lack supporting pieces

Practice Tips

  • Study classic Greek Gift games
  • Calculate the full sequence before sacrificing
  • Ensure you have enough attackers
  • Practice recognizing the pattern

The Greek Gift is one of the most famous attacking patterns in chess.

Related patterns: sacrifice, attraction, smothered-mate. Often seen in: italian-game, kings-indian-defense