Sicilian Defense: Alapin Variation, Barmen Defense

1.e4 c5 2.c3 d5 3.exd5 Qxd5

ECO B22

The Sicilian Defense: Alapin Variation, Barmen Defense is a chess opening line in the Sicilian Defense complex, reached after 1.e4 c5 2.c3 d5 3.exd5 Qxd5.

It is catalogued under code B22 in the Encyclopaedia of Chess Openings (ECO).

The defining move Qxd5 is chosen by Black on move 3.

4 named continuations branch from this position, including the Central Exchange and the Endgame Variation.

Named variations

• Sicilian Defense: Alapin Variation, Barmen Defense, Central Exchange — ECO B22
• Sicilian Defense: Alapin Variation, Barmen Defense, Endgame Variation — ECO B22
• Sicilian Defense: Alapin Variation, Barmen Defense, Milner-Barry Attack — ECO B22
• Sicilian Defense: Alapin Variation, Barmen Defense, Modern Line — ECO B22

Study this line with a grandmaster

This position is covered in the Alapin course: a GM-authored repertoire you study move by move, then practice against a human-like AI opponent.

Every chess term used here is defined in the chess terms glossary. Browse all opening courses or the full ECO code index.