The stunning medieval city of Girona, located in the Catalonia region of Spain, holds a unique place in the hearts of Game of Thrones fans. This picturesque town, with its rich history and beautifully preserved architecture, was chosen as one of the filming locations for the sixth season of HBO’s hit fantasy series.
Girona provided the perfect backdrop for some of the most iconic locations, bringing George R.R. Martin’s world of Westeros to life.
Girona as Braavos, King’s Landing, and Oldtown.
In the world of Game of Thrones Girona’s streets, cathedrals, and plazas are transformed into multiple locations, representing the Free City of Braavos, parts of King’s Landing, and even the Citadel in Oldtown. Let’s examine the roles Girona played in Westeros and Essos.
1. Braavos
Girona is perhaps best known in Game of Thrones for standing in as Braavos, one of the Free Cities across the Narrow Sea. Many of Arya Stark’s storylines in Season 6 were filmed here, especially her time training with the Faceless Men at the House of Black and White. The intricate, narrow alleyways and medieval stone streets of Girona perfectly captured the labyrinthine atmosphere of Braavos.
Sant Pere de Galligants Monastery: This beautiful Romanesque monastery was used for Arya’s chase scene through the streets of Braavos in Season 6, Episode 8 (“No One”). The intense chase sequence between Arya and the Waif culminated in a dramatic fight, with Girona’s iconic architecture serving as the backdrop.
Passeig Arqueològic: Girona’s medieval walls and the Passeig Arqueològic walkway were used in several scenes set in Braavos. The blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles, coupled with its elevation, gave the perfect impression of an ancient city by the sea.
2. King’s Landing
Girona also stood in for parts of King’s Landing in several sequences, particularly in the scenes involving the Great Sept of Baelor and the city’s street life.
Girona Cathedral: One of the most striking locations in Girona, the Girona Cathedral, with its towering Baroque façade and sweeping staircase, became part of the scenery for King’s Landing. It was used for some of the Great Sept of Baelor scenes, providing a majestic backdrop to one of the capital’s most important buildings. The steps, in particular, were prominently featured including scenes involving Jaime Lannister and Margaery Tyrell’s walk to the Sept.
3. Oldtown and the Citadel
In Season 6, Game of Thrones introduced the city of Oldtown, home to the Citadel, the center of learning for Westeros’ maesters. Girona’s architecture was again called upon to portray this ancient and scholarly location.
Arab Baths (Banys Àrabs): The Arab Baths of Girona provided the atmospheric setting for scenes inside the Citadel. Samwell Tarly’s journey to become a maester brought him to this historical place. The Romanesque bathhouse, with its arches and serene environment, fit perfectly with the learned, introspective mood of Oldtown.
The Impact on Girona Tourism
Since its appearance on Game of Thrones Girona has become a must-visit destination for fans of the show. Many seek to walk the same cobblestone streets as Arya Stark, or climb the steps that lead to the (fictional) Great Sept of Baelor.
Walking tours dedicated to the show guide visitors through the various filming locations scattered across the city. They provide context for the scenes shot there and give fans a deeper appreciation for the history and beauty of Girona.
The city, already known for its rich cultural heritage, experienced a boom in tourism following the show’s success. This brought fans from across the globe to explore the medieval architecture, stunning churches, and quaint streets that made Girona a perfect stand-in for several locales in Westeros and Essos.
A Journey Through Time and Fantasy
Girona’s charm lies in its ability to transport visitors back in time, even without the presence of film crews. Its winding streets, historic buildings, and scenic vistas provide a sense of timelessness that Game of Thrones capitalized on. Whether you’re a fan of the show or simply a lover of history, Girona offers a unique blend of real-world beauty and the fantastical allure of Westeros.
In Girona, that magic lives on, nestled within its ancient walls, waiting for travelers to discover its cinematic secrets.
Girona Cathedral and steps