An aristocratic entertainment in the Middle Ages: Çevgan game and its practices

Entertainment had a very important place in the social life of the middle ages. Different types of entertainment were organized in many areas. The main theme of this study, the chavgan game, is a type of entertainment that is among these genres and is called polo in today's world. Geographically, it stands out that it is a part of Eastern culture. While the idea that the game's origin is Central Asia is gaining ground, it is highly likely that its institutionalization is Iran. It is said that this game, which has an ancient history, is based on the angels Gabriel and Michael. This game, played under various names in different societies, is generally played by hitting the ball on a horse with a crooked stick. There are sources that say this game is played without a horse. The information that it is a game belonging to the elite class is common information in the sources. It is said that especially the sultans played this game for pleasure and sports. It is played between two teams of four or six people on a flat and wide field. A point was scored by throwing the ball into the opponent's goal. The game was played over eight halves of seven minutes each and lasted 56 minutes. One of the important details that stood out was the misfortunes experienced while playing chevgan. It is obvious that the Çevgan game, which is a dangerous game, causes great injuries and also death. Despite such situations, this game, which is an indispensable part of social life, continued to be played for health reasons.