Originally, the rook symbolized a chariot. The Persian word rokh means chariot, and the corresponding pieces in Oriental chess games such as xiangqi and shogi have names meaning chariot. Persian War Chariots were heavily armoured, carrying a driver and at least one ranged-weapon bearer, such as an archer.
In German they’re called “Turm” which literally translates to tower…
I suppose siege towers would make sense, however I’ve never seen a chess set that didn’t have them look like a castle. (Which could be one reason they look like that, so castling actually produces a castle)
Modern ones are akin to siege towers is my take.
In German they’re called “Turm” which literally translates to tower…
I suppose siege towers would make sense, however I’ve never seen a chess set that didn’t have them look like a castle. (Which could be one reason they look like that, so castling actually produces a castle)