In honor of the final season of “Game of Thrones”, Musement takes a look at ten of the show’s most iconic filming locations.
The wait is finally (almost) over! Two more sleeps for “Game of Thrones” in the Western Hemisphere while those of us on the other side of the pond have to torturously endure three.
Myriad theories are circulating as to how “Game of Thrones” will end, but one thing is for sure: the finale will shock. So with that in mind, I’m set on one of two outcomes–I believe there’s a good chance the series will end with no one on the throne. The Iron Throne will be melted down–perhaps even by dragonfire?–, ushering in a democracy with an elected leader–preferably Samwell Tarly! Or, as much as I’d love to see Jaime be the dark horse that takes all, I think Rhaegar Targaryen is still alive in the form of Jaqen H’ghar and he’ll claim what is rightfully his.
I can carry on incessantly, but I won’t. In honor of the forthcoming premiere of the final season, we decided to take a look at, in no particular order, ten iconic Game of Thrones locations you should visit.
1. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
The wobbly Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge in County Antrim is suspended high above the Atlantic, swaying swiftly in the wind–those who cross it cling on seemingly for dear life. However, this landmark near the Giant’s Causeway is much safer than it appears! Unless you’re Balon Greyjoy of course…
2. Alcázar of Seville
The Alcázar of Seville, an exquisite 14th-century Christian palace with Moorish influences, served as the backdrop for the Water Gardens of Dorne, one of the highlights of the fifth season, which is considered the weakest among fans and critics.
3. The Cathedral Santa Maria di Girona
Recognize the facade? It’s from the Cathedral of Santa Maria di Girona that Cersei began her infamous walk of shame.
4. Girona as a whole
And speaking of Girona, this Catalan town served as the backdrop for the free city of Braavos (remember Arya fleeing from the irritating Waif?) as well as King’s Landing and Oldtown. A GOT-dedicated tour makes the relevant rounds.
5. Castle Ward Estate
Castle Ward Estate is the site of one of the show’s most enduring backdrops: Winterfell. Many of the scenes set in the Stark stronghold were shot here. Who knows if the beloved Northern family will still be able to call it home following this season? But at least the estate is open to visitors and you can visit it on this tour.
6. Diocletian’s Palace
This fourth-century Roman structure in Split, Croatia serves as the backdrop for the streets of Meereen as well as Daenerys’ throne room, which was in the cellars. See all of this and more on a GOT city walking tour.
7. The gate of Mdina
Parts of the walled city of Mdina in Malta served as King’s Landing during the first season. The city gate is where Catelyn Stark enters King’s Landing with Ser Roderick and also where she and hubby Ned (unknowingly) kiss each other goodbye for the last time.
8. Italica Roman Ruins
One of the most iconic backdrops in Game of Thrones’ history: the Dragonpit. It was at the Italica Roman Ruins that several of our favorite characters met for the first time onscreen in the season seven finale. Also, rumor has it that the amphitheater located just outside of Seville is set to make an appearance in the eighth season, too. Book a visit the next time you’re in Seville.
9. The ramparts of Essaouira
Essaouira, once upon a time known as Mogador, is a partially fortressed city in Morocco on the Atlantic Ocean that served as Astapor, the spot where Daenerys first met her unwaveringly loyal Unsullied army.
10. Minčeta Tower in Dubrovnik
Last, but certainly not least, Dubrovnik was the heart of the show for several seasons as King’s Landing–in fact, the Croatian city actually seems like a character in and of itself. You’ll recognize backdrop after backdrop from the silver screen, and one of the most memorable is the base of Minčeta Tower, the exterior of the House of the Undying in the season two finale.