See where Game of Thrones was filmed in Dubrovnik
Any true Game of Thrones fan will know that the beautiful city of Dubrovnik in Croatia was the filming location for the King’s Landing in the popular TV series. Many famous scenes such as Cersei’s walk of shame, King Joffery’s tournament and Daenerys Targaryen visit to Qarth were all filmed in this sunny city. Well, with Dubrovnik’s picturesque Old Town, fortified port, impressive natural surroundings and quaint narrow streets, it’s no surprise that this Croatian city was chosen to be the set of such a magical series. So, if you want to follow in the footsteps of the Lannisters, then check out these top Game of Thrones movie locations in Dubrovnik.
Fort Lovrijenac
This majestic looking fort is located in the Old Town of Dubrovnik, and doubles as the Red Keep in King’s Landing in the Game of Thrones series. Many scenes are filmed in Fort Lovrijenac, including the tense tournament that was thrown in honor of King Joffrey’s name day in season two.
Located on the very top of a steep cliff, Fort Lovrijenac is a sight to behold. This triangular shaped building is set on three levels and has 10 large cannons guarding the sea facing walls. Probably the most famous aspect of Fort Lovrijenac is the inscription above the main door, “Freedom cannot be sold for all the gold of the world”.
Spanish steps
Arguably the most famous scene in Game of Thrones was filmed on the imposing Spanish steps of Dubrovnik. Cue Cersei looking down on the disapproving crowd from the top of a large stairway, and then walking naked through the streets of Kings Landing to the Red Keep, as a woman screams “shame” in her ear. This scene sees one of our favorite characters walk all the way from the very top of the Spanish Steps to Fort Lovrijenac, through Dubrovnik’s precious Old Town.
This was actually one of the most expensive scenes to film for Game of Thrones as the street below the Spanish Steps is usually filled with adorable local vendors and bustling crowds looking for a bargain. The film crew had to pay all of the bars, restaurants and vendors a “full days work” to be able to gain rights to this area in the city.
Minčeta Tower
Often referred to as the most beautiful fort in Dubrovnik, Minčeta Tower is regarded as the symbol of the city. This impressive tower was finished in 1464 by the famous architect Juraj Dalmatinac, and it’s the highest point in the city to this day. Once you reach the top of Minčeta Tower, you are rewarded with unparalleled views of the Old Town and the Adriatic Sea.
It’s no wonder that such a magnificent building would be the setting for the House of Undying in Game of Thrones. The base of Minčeta Tower is where Daenerys Targaryen searches for her stolen dragons in season two.
Ethnographic Museum
What is really a fantastic museum, housing some of the very best ethnographic heritage artifacts, was something much seedier in Game of Thrones. Do you remember a naughty little place called Littlefinger’s brothel that appeared in season 4? Well, the Ethnographic Museum was the set of the scene where Tyrion meets with Oberyn Martell to seek vengeance for the death of his family.
Back in the real world, the Ethnographic Museum of Dubrovnik is actually one of the most impressive ethnographic heritage museums in the world. It is home to over 6,500 artifacts from Dubrovnik, Croatia and the surrounding states. Must see collections while in this Game of Thrones series location are the traditional dress from the stunning Dubrovačko primorje and Elaphite islands.
Lokrum island
Just a 15minute boat ride from the Old City harbor of Dubrovnik is a lush forested island known as Lokrum. This breathtaking island was used in many scenes in the Game of Thrones series, as it doubled as the city of Qarth near the glittering Jade Sea. Lokrum island most famously pops up in season two when Daenerys Targaryen visits Qarth to socialize with the city’s elite. Many of the scenes were filmed in the picturesque botanical gardens and the former Benedictine monastery on the island.
With its 72 hectares of unspoiled nature, crystal clear waters and close proximity to Dubrovnik, Lokrum island is frequented by many tourists and locals looking for a relaxing escape. While on this stunning Game of Thrones location, be sure to check out the unusual Dead Sea lake, a favorite spot of the locals to take a refreshing swim and the Benedictine monastery, founded in 1023, but mysteriously abandoned in 1789.
