For Game of Thrones fans, the Royal Alcázar of Seville offers a unique opportunity to step into the world of Westeros. The stunning palace complex features intricate Mudéjar architecture and lush gardens. It served as the backdrop for the Water Gardens of Dorne in seasons 5 and 6. However, the Alcázar is much more than just a filming location; it’s a living piece of history that has captivated visitors for centuries.
A Brief History of the Alcázar
The Royal Alcázar of Seville boasts a rich and complex history dating back to the 10th century. Originally constructed as a fortress in 913 AD under the orders of Caliph Abd al-Rahman III, the Alcázar has undergone numerous transformations. The palace we see today is a fascinating blend of Islamic, Mudéjar, Gothic, and Renaissance architectural styles. These styles reflect the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Seville over the millennia. In the 13th century, following the Christian reconquest of Seville, the Alcázar was converted into a royal residence. The most significant changes came during the reign of King Pedro I in the 14th century. He commissioned the construction of the stunning Mudéjar Palace, which forms the heart of the complex today.
Real Alcázar and Game of Thrones: A Perfect Match
The choice of the Alcázar as a filming location for Game of Thrones was no accident. The palace’s history of cultural blending and unique architectural style perfectly mirror the world of Dorne in the series. Just as Dorne stands apart from the rest of Westeros with its distinct culture and customs, the Alcázar is a unique testament to this blending. It reflects the fusion of Christian and Islamic cultures in medieval Spain. The Water Gardens of Dorne, as described in Martin’s books, are a place of beauty and respite. Here, the ruling Martells can escape the heat and intrigues of their capital.
Real Alcázar, with its cooling fountains, shaded walkways, and lush vegetation, perfectly captures this atmosphere. The palace’s intricate tilework and ornate arches echo the exotic, sensual nature of Dorne as portrayed in the series. The history of the Alcázar is filled with tales of power struggles, cultural exchanges, and architectural evolution. These stories could easily fit into the complex world of Game of Thrones. The palace has witnessed its share of intrigue, conflict, and transformation over the centuries. This mirrors the ever-changing political landscape of Westeros.
Game of Thrones Filming Locations
For Game of Thrones enthusiasts, the Alcázar offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters. The palace and its gardens were used extensively to portray the Water Gardens of Dorne, the ancestral home of House Martell. Here are the key filming locations within the Alcázar:
The Ambassador’s Hall (Salón de Embajadores)
This opulent room, with its intricate tilework and golden dome, served as the throne room of Doran Martell. It’s here that pivotal scenes between Doran, Ellaria Sand, and the Sand Snakes were filmed.
Mercury’s Pool (Estanque de Mercurio)
This serene pool, featuring a statue of Mercury, was used in several scenes depicting the Water Gardens. Its tranquil beauty perfectly captured the essence of Dorne’s lush oasis.
The Baths of Maria de Padilla (Baños de Doña María de Padilla)
These underground baths, with their vaulted ceilings and mysterious atmosphere, were featured in scenes with Areo Hotah, captain of Doran Martell’s guard.
The Royal Gardens (Jardines Reales)
The stunning gardens of the Alcázar, with their exotic plants, fountains, and pavilions, were extensively used to bring the Water Gardens of Dorne to life. Many scenes featuring Myrcella Baratheon and Trystane Martell were filmed here.
Visiting the Alcázar
Plan Your Visit
The Alcázar is open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. To avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons, it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance online.
Take a Guided Tour
While it’s possible to explore the Alcázar on your own, taking a guided tour can enhance your experience. This is especially true if you’re interested in the Game of Thrones connection. Many tour companies offer specialized Game of Thrones tours that focus on the filming locations within the palace.
Explore Beyond the Filming Locations
While the Game of Thrones locations are undoubtedly exciting, don’t miss out on the other incredible features of the Alcázar. The Mudéjar Palace, with its stunning Patio de las Doncellas (Courtyard of the Maidens) and Salón de Carlos V (Hall of Charles V), is an architectural marvel. Both spaces are remarkable in their own right.
Visit the Upper Royal Apartments
For an additional fee, you can visit the Upper Royal Apartments, which are still used by the Spanish royal family when they visit Seville. While these rooms weren’t used in Game of Thrones, they offer a fascinating glimpse into royal life through the centuries.
Spend Time in the Gardens
The gardens of the Alcázar are extensive and beautiful, featuring a mix of Moorish, Renaissance, and English landscaping styles. Take your time to explore the various sections, including the Jardin de la Danza (Garden of the Dance) and the Jardin de la Galera (Garden of the Galley).
Beyond Game of Thrones: The Alcázar’s Cultural Significance
While Game of Thrones has brought renewed attention to the Alcázar, it’s important to remember that this palace complex has been a cultural and historical landmark for centuries. Here are some aspects of the Alcázar that go beyond its role as a filming location:
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Alcázar, along with the Seville Cathedral and the General Archive of the Indies, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. This recognition underscores the palace’s exceptional cultural and historical value.
Mudéjar Architecture
The Alcázar is one of the finest examples of Mudéjar architecture in Spain. This unique style, which blends Islamic and Christian elements, is particularly evident in the Palace of Peter I, with its intricate stucco work, colorful tilework, and ornate wooden ceilings.
Royal Residence
The upper floors of the Alcázar continue to serve as the official Seville residence of the Spanish royal family, making it the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe.
Gardens and Horticulture
The gardens of the Alcázar are not only beautiful but also historically significant. They showcase various gardening styles from different periods and cultures, and have been a site of horticultural experimentation for centuries.
Tips for Enhancing Your Visit
To fully appreciate the Alcázar, both as a Game of Thrones fan and as a lover of history and culture, consider these additional tips:
Allow Plenty of Time
The Alcázar is vast, and there’s a lot to see. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the palace and gardens.
Visit Early or Late
To avoid the crowds and the heat (especially in summer), try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Bring Water and Comfortable Shoes
The Alcázar involves a lot of walking, often on uneven surfaces. Comfortable shoes are a must, and bringing water is advisable, especially in the hot Sevillian summers.
Consider the Audioguide
If you’re not taking a guided tour, the audioguide can provide valuable historical context and point out details you might otherwise miss.
Respect the Site
Remember that the Alcázar is not just a tourist attraction or a film set, but a living historical monument and a royal residence. Treat it with respect and follow all rules and guidelines.
The Alcázar in Popular Culture
While Game of Thrones has certainly put the Alcázar in the spotlight, it’s not the first time this stunning palace has featured in film and television. Other notable productions that have used the Alcázar as a filming location include:
Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
The Wind and the Lion (1975)
1492: Conquest of Paradise (1992)
Kingdom of Heaven (2005)
Each of these productions was drawn to the Alcázar for its stunning architecture. The palace exudes a sense of history and exoticism. For Game of Thrones, the Alcázar’s Moorish influences and lush gardens made it the perfect stand-in for the Water Gardens of Dorne. This location is described in George R.R. Martin’s books as an oasis of beauty and tranquility in the harsh Dornish desert.
Conclusion
For Game of Thrones fans, a visit to the Royal Alcázar of Seville offers a unique opportunity to step into the world of their favorite show. From the Ambassador’s Hall to the lush gardens, the palace brings the Water Gardens of Dorne to life in a way that no purpose-built set ever could. But the Alcázar is so much more than just a filming location. It’s a living piece of history, a testament to the cultural richness of Andalusia, and a masterpiece of architecture and garden design.
Whether you’re a die-hard Game of Thrones fan or simply a lover of history and beauty, the Alcázar offers an unforgettable experience. As you walk through its halls and gardens, you’ll be following in the footsteps not just of fictional characters, but of the countless real-life kings, queens, courtiers, and commoners who have marveled at its beauty over the centuries. The Alcázar may have played a starring role in bringing the world of Game of Thrones to life, but its own story is just as fascinating, and continues to unfold to this day.
