Was Game of Thrones Filmed in Barcelona?

By Robert Palmer

If you’ve ever watched Game of Thrones, then you know how visually stunning the show can be. From the sweeping landscapes to the intricate costumes, everything about the show is designed to transport you to another world.

One of the most impressive aspects of Game of Thrones is its use of real-world locations for filming. But was Barcelona one of those locations?

The Short Answer

No, Game of Thrones was not filmed in Barcelona. While the city has played host to many film productions over the years, including Woody Allen’s Vicky Cristina Barcelona and Pedro Almodóvar’s All About My Mother, it was not a filming location for Game of Thrones.

Where Was Game of Thrones Filmed?

Game of Thrones was filmed in a variety of locations around the world, including Northern Ireland, Croatia, Iceland, Spain, and Morocco. Many scenes were also filmed on soundstages in Belfast.

Northern Ireland

The majority of Game of Thrones was filmed in Northern Ireland. The show’s production company, HBO, took advantage of Northern Ireland’s tax incentives and built a massive studio complex outside Belfast.

Croatia

Croatia served as a filming location for several seasons of Game of Thrones. Dubrovnik’s Old Town was used as King’s Landing, while other locations in Croatia stood in for Braavos and Meereen.

Iceland

Iceland provided some stunning backdrops for scenes beyond The Wall. The country’s glaciers and icy landscapes were perfect for creating the otherworldly feel that Game of Thrones is known for.

Spain and Morocco

Spain and Morocco were both used as locations for scenes set in Essos. In Spain, Seville’s Real Alcázar palace served as the Water Gardens of Dorne, while other locations in the country were used for scenes set in Pentos and Braavos. Morocco’s Essaouira was used as the city of Astapor.

The Importance of Filming Locations

The use of real-world locations is a crucial aspect of Game of Thrones’ success. By filming in actual places, the show was able to give viewers a sense of authenticity and realism that would not have been possible if everything had been filmed on soundstages.

Creating a Sense of Place

The use of real-world locations helped to create a sense of place that was essential to the show’s success. From King’s Landing to Winterfell, every location felt like a real place with its own history and culture.

Transporting the Audience

By filming in exotic locations around the world, Game of Thrones was able to transport viewers to another world. The show’s stunning visuals and intricate world-building were made possible by the use of real-world locations.

In Conclusion

While Barcelona may not have been a filming location for Game of Thrones, the show’s use of real-world locations played a crucial role in its success. By transporting viewers to another world through stunning visuals and intricate world-building, Game of Thrones became one of the most popular shows in television history.