“House of the Dragon,” the eagerly anticipated fantasy drama series by George R. R. Martin and Ryan Condal, serves as a prequel to the iconic “Game of Thrones.” Set in the rich universe of A Song of Ice and Fire, specifically based on Martin’s novel “Fire & Blood,” the series delves into the history of the Targaryen dynasty.
Amidst a backdrop of dragons and Machiavellian power plays, “House of the Dragon” features a stellar cast led by Matt Smith and Emma D’Arcy as Targaryen scions, supported by Olivia Cooke, Rhys Ifans, Eve Best, and Steve Toussaint portraying pivotal roles in the noble houses of Westeros.
Epic Filming Locations
Similar to its predecessor, “House of the Dragon” combines elaborate studio sets with real-world locations to bring the world of Westeros to life. The production took advantage of the renowned Warner Bros Studio at Leavesden in Hertfordshire, UK, known for its association with Harry Potter. Featuring cutting-edge facilities like expansive LED rooms, this studio provided a fitting base for the series.
Cornwall: A Coastal Fantasy
The rugged coast of Cornwall serves as a prime backdrop for the series. St. Michael’s Mount, with its medieval castle perched atop a tidal island near Penzance, transforms into Driftmark, ancestral seat of House Velaryon in Blackwater Bay. Nearby Kynance Cove and Holywell Beach further enhance the fantasy with their turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations, appearing as the Stepstones and other exotic locales.
Derbyshire: Peaks and Valleys
In contrast to Cornwall’s coastal charm, Derbyshire’s Peak District offers sweeping hills and valleys that add depth to the series. Locations like Cave Dale and Eldon Hill provide a rugged, ancient backdrop reminiscent of a bygone era, while Mam Tor and its Bronze Age fort evoke a sense of mystique and history.
Hampshire: A Tournament in Time
Hampshire’s Caesar’s Camp near Aldershot hosts a tournament scene, bringing the medieval world to life amidst its Iron Age hill fort setting. This location, more accustomed to period dramas, sets the stage for grand events and bustling crowds integral to the series.
Spain: Medieval Splendor
Venturing to Spain, the series utilizes historic towns like Cácares and Trujillo, known for their medieval architecture. Cácares, previously seen as King’s Landing in “Game of Thrones,” reprises its role with its maze-like streets and ancient towers, while Trujillo adds another layer of historical richness with its Roman and Moorish influences.
Granada and Lloret de Mar: Spanish Grandeur
New additions to the series include Granada’s Castillo de la Calahorra, a stunning 16th-century castle overlooking the village, and Lloret de Mar’s Gardens of Santa Clotilde, offering breathtaking sea views from their Renaissance-inspired design. These locations bring opulence and grandeur to the storyline, fitting for the saga of “Fire and Ice.”
Monsanto, Portugal: The City of Stone
Crossing into Portugal, Monsanto’s distinctive architecture mixes nicely with the country’s mountainous topography. Known as the “City of Stone,” its medieval castle and cobbled streets contrast with massive granite boulders to produce a visually stunning backdrop that symbolizes the series’ elemental themes.
Discovering the Key Filming Locations
Where is Dragonstone Castle Filmed?
Dragonstone, the formidable seat of House Targaryen, boasts high stone walls and overlooks the volcanic Dragonmont. Despite its fictional appearance, the exteriors were actually filmed in Gwynedd, North Wales. The region’s ancient quarries and breathtaking landscapes, including Snowdonia National Park, served as the backdrop for Dragonstone’s rugged terrain and dramatic vistas.
Where is Driftmark Castle Located?
Across the sea from Dragonstone lies Driftmark Castle, home to House Velaryon. Inspired by the universe crafted by George RR Martin, Driftmark Castle’s visual inspiration came from St. Michael’s Mount in Cornwall, England. This tidal island, crowned by the medieval Castle of St Michael, provided the perfect setting with its historic charm and coastal splendor.
King’s Landing Filmed in Croatia
Unlike “Game of Thrones,” which famously used Croatian cities like Dubrovnik and Split, “House of the Dragon” turned to Spain for its portrayal of King’s Landing. This iconic setting, crucial to the series’ political intrigue and grandeur, found its new home in Spain, promising a fresh perspective on this pivotal city in Westeros.
With a fusion of cutting-edge technology and breathtaking natural vistas, “House of the Dragon” promises an immersive journey into the lore of Westeros. As the saga unfolds, these diverse filming locations not only enhance the narrative depth but also transport viewers to a world where dragons soar and royal ambitions collide. Prepare to be enthralled as “House of the Dragon” unfolds its tale of power, betrayal, and legacy against the backdrop of these enchanting settings.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – House of the Dragon Season 1
Q: Where was “House of the Dragon” filmed?
A: “House of the Dragon” was filmed in various locations across Europe. Key filming locations include Cornwall and Derbyshire in the United Kingdom, as well as several historic towns in Spain such as Cácares, Trujillo, Granada, Lloret de Mar, and Monsanto in Portugal.
Q: When was “House of the Dragon” filmed?
A: Principal photography on the ten-episode first season of the series began in April 2021. In February 2022, HBO confirmed that the first season of House of the Dragon had wrapped production.
Q: What is the release date for “House of the Dragon”?
A: “House of the Dragon” was released on August 21, 2022 on HBO.
Q: How many episodes are there in Season 1 of “House of the Dragon”?
A: Season 1 of “House of the Dragon” consists of 10 episodes.
