The World’s Oldest Tennis Courts
he world’s oldest tennis courts are primarily associated with the game of real tennis, which is the precursor to modern lawn tennis and was played in England, Scotland and France.
Tennis was probably introduced in the 13th century.
Tennis comes from the French word tenez, the warning that was shouted before each serve. An early form of the game known as jeu de paume or game of the palm of the hand was played in the town squares and religious cloisters of medieval Europe. Royal tennis rackets are still shaped like the palm of a hand.
The game was similar to uiday’d game of swuash with the court smaller and enclosed by walls.
The tennis court at Falkland Palace, in Falkland, Scotland ,claims to be the oldest surviving real tennis court in the world. It was constructed in the early 16th century during the reign of James IV of Scotland. This court is notable for its historical significance and architectural features.
The palace was used by Scottish monarchs first as a hunting lodge and then as a country retreat
The monarchs, including James IV and James V, who were known for their love of the game. It served as a recreational space for the royal family and their guests.
The tennis court is built in a traditional style, featuring stone walls and a sloping roof. The design reflects the aesthetics of the Renaissance period.
The court has been well-preserved and is recognized as a significant part of Scotland’s sporting heritage. It remains an important representation of the history of tennis.
The court is a reminder of the leisure activities of the Scottish nobility during the Renaissance and offers insights into the social life of the time.
Fitz william Museum, in Cambridge, England features one of the oldest surviving real tennis courts, dating back to the 16th century. The court is still in use today and is part of the museum’s collection.
The real tennis court at Hampton Court near London was built during the reign of King Henry VIII in the early 16th century. It remains in use and is one of the most famous historical tennis courts in the world.
The Royal Tennis Court in Edinburgh, is believed to have been established in the late 16th century and is still used for real tennis.
There is also a The Tennis Court at the Château de Fontainebleau in France dating back to the 16th century. This is another historical site where real tennis is played.
