King's Landing, the iconic fictional capital of the Seven Kingdoms from HBO's Game of Thrones, would be located in Dubrovnik, Croatia, its primary real-world filming location.
Dubrovnik, a historic city on the Adriatic Sea, served as the primary backdrop for the bustling, politically charged streets and formidable walls of King's Landing. Its striking resemblance to the envisioned capital made it an ideal choice for the show's producers.
The Real-World King's Landing: Dubrovnik, Croatia
When imagining King's Landing in a real-world context, one immediately thinks of Dubrovnik, Croatia. This ancient walled city perfectly embodied the aesthetic and grandeur required for the capital of Westeros. Viewers familiar with King's Landing's distinctive look—its red roofs, enormous city walls, and towering clifftop fortress—will recognize these very features in Dubrovnik. The city's medieval architecture, narrow stone streets, and stunning coastal setting provided a ready-made set for many pivotal scenes.
Why Dubrovnik Was Chosen
Dubrovnik's appeal as King's Landing went beyond its visual beauty. It offered a unique combination of historical authenticity and dramatic landscapes:
- Imposing City Walls: Dubrovnik's well-preserved city walls, dating back to the 13th century, are among the finest in the world. These immense fortifications perfectly mirrored King's Landing's defenses, crucial for scenes like the Battle of Blackwater Bay.
- Historical Architecture: The city's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts a wealth of Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic architecture. The stone buildings, red-tiled roofs, and ancient churches provide a timeless backdrop.
- Strategic Coastal Location: Perched dramatically on a rocky promontory overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik's natural setting made it easy to visualize it as a key port city and military stronghold.
- Iconic Landmarks: Specific sites within and around Dubrovnik were easily recognizable as key King's Landing locations, often requiring minimal set dressing.
Experiencing King's Landing in Dubrovnik
For fans of Game of Thrones, a visit to Dubrovnik is like stepping directly into King's Landing. Many tour operators offer themed walking tours that highlight the precise filming spots. Some of the most recognizable locations include:
- Lovrijenac Fort (The Red Keep): This magnificent fortress, often referred to as "Dubrovnik's Gibraltar," stands on a 37-meter-high rock overlooking the sea. It served as the exterior of the Red Keep, the seat of the Iron Throne.
- Pile Gate: One of the main entrances to Dubrovnik's Old Town, Pile Gate was frequently featured as the main gate to King's Landing. It was here that many royal processions and public events took place.
- Stradun (Main Street): The Stradun, Dubrovnik's main street, appeared in numerous King's Landing scenes, often bustling with extras representing the city's populace.
- Jesuit Staircase (Walk of Shame): The beautiful Baroque staircase leading up to St. Ignatius Church famously served as the setting for Cersei Lannister's harrowing "Walk of Shame."
- Lokrum Island (Qarth): While not King's Landing itself, the nearby Lokrum Island was used for scenes set in the city of Qarth, offering another Game of Thrones connection close by.
- Minčeta Tower (House of the Undying): This iconic circular tower, part of the city walls, stood in for the House of the Undying in Qarth, where Daenerys's dragons were stolen.
Fictional vs. Real: A Comparison Table
| Fictional Element (King's Landing) | Real-World Counterpart (Dubrovnik) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Capital City of Westeros | Historic City of Dubrovnik | A walled medieval city with a rich history and stunning architecture. |
| The Red Keep | Lovrijenac Fort | A prominent fortress on a clifftop, overlooking the Adriatic Sea. |
| King's Landing City Walls | Dubrovnik City Walls | Massive and well-preserved medieval fortifications surrounding the Old Town. |
| Blackwater Bay | Adriatic Sea surrounding Dubrovnik | The beautiful blue waters of the Adriatic, used for naval scenes. |
| City Gates | Pile Gate, Ploče Gate | Historic entrances to the walled city. |
Visiting Dubrovnik: Practical Tips
For anyone planning to visit the "real" King's Landing, here are a few practical tips:
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the peak summer months.
- Explore the Walls: Walking the city walls provides unparalleled views of Dubrovnik's red roofs and the surrounding sea, offering an immersive King's Landing experience.
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Croatian dishes in one of the many restaurants within the Old Town.
- Sustainable Tourism: Be mindful of the city's efforts to manage tourism responsibly, especially during peak season, to preserve its heritage.
Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik Tourism Board
