Dubrovnik, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historical gem but also a prominent filming location for the globally popular television series "Game of Thrones." The choice of Dubrovnik as a replacement for the fictional city of King's Landing has not only elevated the city's status but also triggered a rush of tourists eager to explore the real-life locations of their favorite scenes. This article looks at the magic of Dubrovnik as a Game of Thrones filming location and why it was the perfect choice for the iconic series.
Why Dubrovnik for Game of Thrones?
Dubrovnik's medieval architecture, well-preserved city walls, and stunning coastal scenery made it ideal to portray King's Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms in "Game of Thrones." The city's timeless beauty and historic ambiance perfectly capture the essence of George R.R. Martin's fictional world.
The most important filming locations of "Game of Thrones" in Dubrovnik
City walls and Lovrijenac Fortress
The impressive city walls of Dubrovnik, combined with the imposing Fort Lovrijenac, were often shown as an exterior view of King's Landing. Fort Lovrijenac, known as the "Gibraltar of Dubrovnik," served as the Red Keep in many scenes, including the Battle of the Blackwater.
Pile gate
The Pile Gate is one of the main entrances to Dubrovnik's Old Town and an important location in Dubrovnik's Game of Thrones. Many key moments were filmed here, including King Joffrey's confrontation with his subjects.
Jesuit staircase
The Jesuit Staircase, which leads to the Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola, became famous as the setting for Cersei Lannister's "Walk of Shame." This dramatic scene, one of the most memorable in the series, has drawn attention to this beautiful part of Dubrovnik.
Palace of the Rector
The Rector's Palace in the Old Town of Dubrovnik was also the residence of the Spice King of Qarth. Its ornate design and historical significance make it a perfect backdrop for the opulent and mysterious city of Qarth.
Dubrovnik West Harbor
The Western Harbor has been used in various scenes depicting the King's Landing waterfront, including Sansa Stark's memorable escape with Ser Dontos.
Impact on tourism
The choice of Dubrovnik for Game of Thrones has significantly boosted tourism in the city. Fans from all over the world flock to Dubrovnik to walk the same streets as their favorite characters. Guided tours focusing specifically on the Game of Thrones filming locations in Dubrovnik have become incredibly popular, offering fans behind-the-scenes insights and the chance to relive iconic moments.
Tips for visiting the Dubrovnik Game of Thrones filming locations
Take a guided tour: To get the most out of your visit, join one of the many guided tours that provide detailed information about each filming location and its significance to the series.
Explore the surroundings of the filming locations: While the Dubrovnik Game of Thrones filming locations are a big draw, the city itself has much more to offer, including a rich history, cultural events, and stunning scenery.
Visit the city in the low season: Dubrovnik can be very crowded during the high season. Visiting in the low season offers a more relaxed experience and better opportunities to explore the filming locations without the crowds.
Dubrovnik's role as King's Landing in "Game of Thrones" has cemented its place on the map for fans of the series. The city's stunning architecture and rich history provided the perfect backdrop for the epic fantasy saga, creating unforgettable scenes that captivated audiences worldwide. Whether you are a die-hard fan or a curious traveler, exploring the 'Game of Thrones' locations in Dubrovnik offers a unique and magical experience that brings the world of Westeros to life.
So, if you're planning a trip to Dubrovnik, take the chance to immerse yourself in the world of Game of Thrones and discover the real-life locations that brought the fantastical city of King's Landing to our screens.