Scenes from Game of Thrones Filmed in Spain: A Tour of Historical Wonders and Breathtaking Landscapes

Every fan of Game of Thrones knows the thrill of spotting familiar locations during a rewatch. From lush palaces to ancient bridges and majestic castles, these Spanish scenes showcase Game of Thrones's grandeur. This article delves into the breathtaking settings that served as the backdrop for GoT, exploring the historical significance of each location and uncovering the production stories behind the scenes.

Alcázar of Seville: Water Gardens of Dorne

The Alcázar of Seville is a royal palace that now stands as a magnificent reminder of the sun-soaked world of Dorne. The palace's ornate arches, tranquil pools, and lush gardens provided an ideal setting for the Water Gardens of Dorne, the home of House Martell. Stepping into the Alcázar is like stepping into a historical kaleidoscope, where past and present come together to create a story of beauty and intrigue.

Roman Bridge in Córdoba: Long Bridge of Volantis

The ancient Roman bridge in Córdoba is one of the most striking sights in Spain. This Roman bridge plays the role of the Long Bridge of Volantis in the series. While it may not have the towering stone elephants from the books, its grandeur and commanding position over the Guadalquivir River are awe-inspiring. The bridge's ancient stones and towering presence give it a sense of otherworldly history, reminiscent of the magical realms seen in Game of Thrones.

Castle of Zafra: Tower of Joy

Northern Spain's Castle of Zafra in Guadalajara holds a special place in the series. This fortress served as the location for the Tower of Joy in a pivotal flashback scene. Nestled on a barren rock, the castle's isolated majesty captures the essence of the secrets and betrayals that took place within its walls. The isolated nature of the castle adds a layer of mystery and suspense to the already gripping storyline.

Girona: Braavos and the Free City

Historic Girona, a city rich in culture and art, served as multiple locations throughout the series. Its majestic cathedral stairs were used as part of the city of Braavos, while the twisting alleys of the Jewish Quarter were transformed into the Free City. Arya Stark's journey from blindness to becoming No One was set against the backdrop of these historic locations, adding both depth and realism to her character arc.

Bardenas Reales: Dothraki Sea

Bardenas Reales, a desert landscape in Navarre, provided the stark and almost lunar environment for the Dothraki Sea. The Dothraki, known for their centuries-old traditions and fierce battles, found a perfect setting in this harsh, yet captivating landscape. The intense texture of the beach's rock formations made for an unforgettable entry into the ancestral seat of House Targaryen.

Itzurún Beach: The Landing of Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen

Itzurún Beach in Zumaia is notably stunning, serving as the Westeros version of Dragonstone's landing site. The texture of the beach's rock formations is so vivid and intense that it creates an unforgettable entry into the ancestral seat of House Targaryen. The juxtaposition of the rugged coastline and the mythical beauty of the land showcases the breathtaking visuals that fans have come to love in Game of Thrones.

Castillo de Almodóvar del Río: Highgarden

The Castillo de Almodóvar del Río in Córdoba provided a grand backdrop for Highgarden, the ancestral seat of House Tyrell. The castle's towering and imposing towers, surrounded by medieval walls, convey a sense of grandeur and impending doom. This setting played a significant role in the storyline, as the Tyrells emerged as major players in the kingdom's politics and warfare.

From the sun-drenched palaces and ancient bridges to the stark deserts and rugged coastlines, Spain's historical and natural wonders have provided a diverse and visually stunning array of backgrounds for Game of Thrones. These locations not only serve as stunning visual representations but also add layers of depth and realism to the intricate storyline, making them a beloved part of the series' legacy.

Visitors and fans of the show can explore these iconic locations on their own via guided tours, which often provide insights into the production and the work that went into transforming these sites into the magical world of Westeros.