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Discover Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Dubrovnik

For legions of Game of Thrones enthusiasts, Dubrovnik isn't just a stunningly preserved medieval city; it's the very heart of the Seven Kingdoms, where power plays and royal dramas unfolded against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs and ageless fortresses. This blog is your gateway to walking the cobbled streets and towering battlements that framed some of the most iconic moments in modern television history. Join us as we explore King's Landing not just within the storied walls of Dubrovnik but across the sweeping landscapes of Croatia that brought Westeros to life.
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The History of Dubrovnik and Game of Thrones:

Long before the directors of Game of Thrones chose Dubrovnik for their sprawling epic, the city had a storied past, echoing with tales of maritime trade and formidable defenses. It's no wonder that this city, cradled by the Adriatic Sea and fortified by stone walls, was chosen to represent King's Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. Dubrovnik's old-world charm and well-preserved medieval architecture provided the perfect canvas for the series, requiring minimal CGI enhancements to transport viewers to another world.

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Iconic Filming Locations:

Here are some of the most iconic filming locations within the city of Dubrovnik that you shouldn’t miss:

  • Fort Lovrijenac / The Red Keep
    Nestled on a rocky promontory just outside the western wall of the city, Fort Lovrijenac is an imposing fortress that doubled as the Red Keep. Here, the plots of the Iron Throne were as deep as the Adriatic itself. Visitors can stand atop the fort's walls, overlooking the shimmering sea, and imagine the arrival of King Robert's procession in Season 1 or Joffrey's name day tournament.
  • Gradac Park / The Purple Wedding
    A tranquil spot offering shade and views, Gradac Park is the setting for one of the series' most shocking events: the Purple Wedding. The park, a green oasis, was transformed into the gardens of King's Landing, where King Joffrey met his untimely end. The park's natural beauty contrasts sharply with the dark turn of events it witnessed on screen.
  • Dubrovnik West Pier / Blackwater Bay
    The West Pier, with its rugged coastline and medieval docks, served as the setting for Blackwater Bay. Here, Tyrion Lannister masterminded the defense of King's Landing against Stannis Baratheon's fleet in the explosive Battle of Blackwater. Fans can walk along the pier and recall the fiery explosion of wildfire that lit up the night sky.
  • St. Dominic Street / The Walk of Shame
    Perhaps one of the most memorable scenes filmed in Dubrovnik is Cersei Lannister's walk of atonement. The baroque architecture of St. Dominic Street provided a somber runway for the fallen queen's path of penance. Today, it remains a must-visit for any fan, offering a tactile connection to the series' most human moments.
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Beyond King's Landing: Croatia's Role in "Game of Thrones":

While Dubrovnik is the crown jewel of Game of Thrones locations in Croatia, the country's diverse landscapes played host to a variety of settings in the show:

  • Diocletian's Palace in Split:
    The ancient cellars of this Roman palace became the eerie dungeons where Daenerys Targaryen kept her dragons in the later seasons. The historic complex adds a layer of authenticity and grandeur to the world of Essos.
  • Klis Fortress:
    Perched high above the city of Split, Klis Fortress is where Daenerys plotted her return to power. Its stony and strategic vantage point makes it easy to see why it was chosen as the city of Meereen.
  • Trsteno Arboretum:
    Just north of Dubrovnik, this lush botanical garden was transformed into the palatial gardens of King's Landing, where many of the show's intricate political machinations took place amidst verdant greenery and classical sculptures.
  • Šibenik:
    The historic city of Šibenik stood in for Braavos, the city of canals and the Iron Bank. Its medieval streets and distinctive architecture provided a fitting backdrop for Arya Stark's transformative journey.

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