It’s fair to say that Game of Thrones took the world by storm. The HBO fantasy drama show’s ending may have been a little disappointing for viewers, but it remains one of the most popular TV shows in history. What you may not know is that the capital of Westeros in the TV show, Kings Landing, was set almost entirely in the Croatian city of Dubrovnik. There are countless filming locations throughout the city. Many of which can be visited on dedicated Game of Thrones tours. In this article, we’ll visit some of the most recognizable Game of Thrones filming locations, which also happen to be some of the best sites to visit in Dubrovnik.
Sites to Visit in Dubrovnik
Jesuit Stairs
One of the most memorable moments in the whole of Game of Thrones came in series 5, episode 10 when Queen Cersei was made to complete a Walk of Shame from the Sept of Baelor back to the Red Keep completely naked. The whole street was closed for filming. Hundreds of extras were brought in to pelt Cersei with tomatoes and cabbages as she made her way down the staircase and back to her castle. In reality, this elegant Baroque staircase can be found just south of Gundulic Square. Definitely a “must-see” for any fan of the show and one of the best sites to visit in Dubrovnik.
Pile Gate
The Pile Gate was constructed in the 15th century as the main entrance to Dubrovnik’s Old Town. It was originally built to be used during the day and then pulled up every night. This prevented unwelcome visitors from gaining entry to the fortified city. In Game of Thrones, the Pile Gate was used numerous times in series 2 and 3. Most notably, it appears in the shot when the evil King Joffrey returns to the Red Keep after his sister Myrcella has been sent away to Dorne and is attacked by an angry mob.
Pile Harbour
Close to the Pile Gate, the Pile Harbour served as the setting for the scene just mentioned in series 2. This is when Princess Myrcella is sent away to Dorne for her own safety. Subsequently, the whole Lannister family gathers on the shore and watches as Myrcella sails away from Kings Landing. In series 6, Queen Cersei returns to the shore of the harbour to await Myrcella’s return. Undoubtedly, fans of the show will know what happened next.
City Walls (Walls of Dubrovnik)
One of the best things to see in Dubrovnik, the incredible city walls should form a part of your trip to the city. Whether or not you are interested in Game of Thrones. The views from the ramparts are incredible and it feels as if history is coming alive. Even though there is a small fee to pay, it is well worth it if you want to gain access. The best time to do so is early in the morning before the crowds arrive. In Game of Thrones, the walls are featured numerous times, usually with characters patrolling the ramparts of Kings Landing.
Fort Bokar, which forms part of the city walls, was used in series 2. In addition, in episode 8, Tyrion Lannister and the eunuch Lord Varys discuss defense strategies for the city. The UNESCO-listed walls themselves feature across the show. In series 3, episode 1, Tyrion, Bronn, and Podrick walk along the walls, surveying the damage from the Battle of Blackwater. Consequently in series 4, episode 7, they are the setting for the gruesome scene where the Mountain slaughters prisoners.
Minceta Tower
Dubrovnik didn’t just feature as the backdrop to Kings Landing. For example, the 14th-century fortress Minceta Tower is on display. It is also Dubrovnik’s highest point. Moreover, it provides visitors with some of the best views over the city and the Adriatic Sea. Minceta Tower also appears in Game of Thrones towards the end of series 2, when Daenerys is in the city of Qarth. Her three baby dragons have been stolen. Daenerys then visits the House of the Undying in an attempt to retrieve them. The House of the Undying is Minceta Tower.
Ethnographic Museum
Dubrovnik isn’t really known for its museums. Nonetheless, the Ethnographic Museum is one of its better ones, depicting agricultural and folk exhibits from across Croatia’s history. Specifically, visitors to the museum may recognize the interior from Game of Thrones, it served as Littlefinger’s brothel throughout the series. Most memorably, in series 4, episode 1, Tyrion Lannister meets Oberyn Martell here. The prince from Dorne is on a sworn mission to avenge the deaths of his sister and her children at the hands of the Mountain.
Sites to visit in Dubrovnik Recap
Whether you’re a fan of Game of Thrones or not, Dubrovnik remains one of the best places to visit in Croatia. Incredible architecture and wonderful city walls provide a memorable experience for non-fantasy drama television buffs as well. The Game of Thrones filming locations spread across the city and is just one of the highlights. All in all, each site acts as an incentive for some of the many millions of fans of the show to visit the city. Once there you can transport yourself and capture photographs of where Lena Heady, Peter Dinklage, Emilia Clarke, and others stood in the role as their famous characters.