Seville, the vibrant capital of Andalusia, boasts a rich history and stunning architecture that captivated the producers of HBO's Game of Thrones. While not as prominently featured as some other locations, Seville played a crucial role in bringing the world of Westeros to life. This article delves into Seville's Game of Thrones connection, exploring its filming locations and the impact on the city's tourism.
What Parts of Game of Thrones Were Filmed in Seville?
Seville served as a backdrop for several key scenes in Game of Thrones, primarily in Season 5. Specifically, the Alcázar of Seville stood in for the Water Gardens of Dorne, providing a breathtaking setting for scenes involving the Martells and their intrigues. The intricate details of the Alcázar's architecture, its lush courtyards, and the vibrant colours of its tiles perfectly complemented the opulent and sometimes treacherous atmosphere of Dorne.
Which Locations in Seville Were Used in Game of Thrones?
The most significant location used in Seville for Game of Thrones is undoubtedly the Real Alcázar of Seville. Its Moorish and Christian architectural styles, combined with its sprawling gardens, created a visually stunning representation of Dorne. Other locations within Seville might have been used for smaller scenes or background shots, but the Alcázar remains the centerpiece of Seville's Game of Thrones legacy.
Was the Seville Cathedral used in Game of Thrones?
No, the Seville Cathedral, while a magnificent structure, was not utilized as a filming location for Game of Thrones. The show's producers focused on the Alcázar due to its aesthetic alignment with their vision for Dorne. The Cathedral's immense scale and Gothic style likely didn't fit the visual requirements of the specific scenes they were filming.
What Other Game of Thrones Locations are in Spain?
Spain featured prominently in Game of Thrones, with several other locations playing crucial roles. Beyond Seville, other Spanish filming locations include:
- Osuna, Seville: This town provided the setting for the impressive fighting pits of Meereen.
- Girona: This Catalan city served as a stand-in for various locations, including Braavos.
- Peñíscola: This coastal town in Castellón was used for scenes in Meereen.
- Almería: The deserts and castles of Almería were used for various scenes.
How Did Game of Thrones Impact Tourism in Seville?
Since its appearance in Game of Thrones, Seville has experienced a surge in tourism, with many visitors specifically seeking out the Alcázar to see the filming locations firsthand. This influx of "Game of Thrones" tourism has significantly boosted the local economy, highlighting the power of filming locations to attract international visitors.
Is There a Game of Thrones Tour in Seville?
While there isn't an official Game of Thrones tour specifically dedicated to Seville, many guided tours of the Alcázar often highlight the show's filming locations. It’s worthwhile to check with local tour operators to find a tour that emphasizes the Game of Thrones aspects of the Alcázar. Independent exploration is also possible, as the Alcázar is readily identifiable from pictures and descriptions related to its role in the series.
Seville's inclusion in Game of Thrones solidified its place as a captivating and historically significant city. The Alcázar's beauty, perfectly captured on screen, serves as a testament to both the show's visual prowess and the enduring allure of Seville. Whether you're a Game of Thrones enthusiast or simply a lover of history and stunning architecture, Seville offers a memorable experience.
