The Game of Thrones architecture is an impressive synergy of historical references, cultural connotations, and craftsmanship of the show?s universe to complement the show. Much like in real cities, architectural differences are also present in Game of Thrones and they should not be underestimated as they help viewers plunge into the world of Westeros. Read on to learn more about the different buildings featured in the series, as well as the real-life buildings that inspired the show and the meaning behind those building choices.

Winterfell: The Medieval Fortress

Winterfell perfectly represents the medieval architecture in Game of Thrones as it is the ancestral home of House Stark. The architectural style can be described as Norman Gothic, so there are tall stone walls, steep windows, and large towers. The high and strong walls of the building represent courage, invulnerability, and northern intransigence.

• Historical Influence: The building design of Winterfell resembles other medieval castles that are actually in existence in the real world, especially in England and Scotland. The thickness of the walls and the presence of the towers indicate the necessity of protecting from invasions and the severe climate of winters.
• Cultural Symbolism: The architecture of Winterfell embodies the Starks? claim on the North, as well as their duty to safeguard the region. This simple and plain-built castle reflects the external characteristics of the Northerners, which are rough and uncompromising.
• Visual Impact: Winterfell and its houses with their severe Gothic shapes also underline the climatic and cultural differences of the regions of south and north of Westeros.

King?s Landing: The Mediterranean Cityscape

Contrary to Winterfell, King?s Landing architecture corresponds to Mediterranean-inspired architecture with references to ancient Rome, Moorish Spain, and the Italian Renaissance. Familiarity with its hot, sunny climate and decoration emphasis on the lavishness and political dramas of the capital.

• Historical Influence: The general looks and feel of King?s Landing are based on the Mediterranean coast, specifically the cities of Dubrovnik, Barcelona, and Venice where some of Game of Thrones was shot. Aspects like red terracotta roofs, tiles of balconies, and dynamic markets are reflected in the city.
• Cultural Symbolism: The overall impression that the viewers have at King?s Landing reflects the magnificence, power, and elegance of the ruling Lannisters and the Iron Throne. The architecture also becomes the backdrop of the political scheming and the treachery that goes on behind the almond-shaped doors of the city. 
• Visual Impact: The excessive brightness that envelops King?s Landing is maybe the most evident analogy to the darkness of the rest of the settings in the narrative to emphasize the luxury and the significance of the city. 

The Eyrie: The Sky Castle

The Eyre, where the Arryns reside, is one of the most prominent and identifiable representations of fantasy architecture in Game of Thrones. Standing atop a sheer cliff face the Eyrie is not only a civil engineering feat but symbolizes the unreachable dove.

• Historical Influence: The most apparent architectural elements of the Eyrie are copying the Eagle?s Nest Castle of Germany and other fortresses of mountains. Its unstable position and structural climb up resemble the high risk of medieval mountain castles as a rule.
• Cultural Symbolism: Isolation perfectly captures the essence of Eyrie and the entirety of the House Arryn and reflects the sophistication of the ruling family and their concept of honour and justice. In terms of the physical structure of the castle, the political aspect and entrance/exit are signified the most.
• Visual Impact: The positioning and, especially, the inaccessibility of the Eyrie as a part of the series continues the mythological element, contributing to the geographical and architectural diversity within the realm of Westeros.

Dragonstone: The Volcanic Fortress

Even Dragonstone, where Targaryens used to have their retreat, exhibits both Gothic and volcanic features on its facade. This fortress denotes the passion of Targaryens and things related to dragons.

• Historical Influence: Dragonstone’s architecture is inspired by volcanic settings and Gothic churches. The usage of dark, volcanic stone and dragon patterns emphasizes the Targaryens’ roots on the volcanic island of Valyria.
• Cultural Symbolism: Dragonstone’s architecture embodies the Targaryens’ mysterious and strong past. The dragon sculptures and engravings are reminders of their ancient dominance over dragons and their goal to retake the Iron Throne.
• Visual Impact: Dragonstone’s dark, gloomy design adds a feeling of mystery and peril to the Targaryens’ plot and power struggle.

Harrenhal: The Cursed Castle

Harrenhal, Westeros’ biggest fortress, is a startling example of castle design in Game of Thrones. Its gigantic, half-damaged building serves as a warning of dragons’ destructive might and the dangers of hubris.

• Historical Influence: Harrenhal’s design was inspired by real-world castles that have been destroyed, including Caernarfon Castle in Wales. The burnt, fractured walls and towering ruins are the result of Harren’s foolishness in opposing Aegon the Conqueror.
• Cultural Symbolism: Harrenhal’s cursed architecture represents the repercussions of ambition and the transience of power. The castle’s ruins serve as a harsh reminder to those who attempt to abuse their authority. 
• Visual Impact: Harrenhal’s decaying, spooky building lends a depth of sadness and horror to the story, underlining the darker themes of power and retribution.

Influence of Real-World Architecture in Game of Thrones

The influence of real-world architecture in Game of Thrones is evident in the detailed design of its various locations. The series’ writers drew inspiration from real castles, towns, and strongholds, combining them with mythical features to create a world that is both familiar and strange. This fusion is a defining feature of Westeros architecture, demonstrating how historical and mythical styles may coexist to improve the visual narrative.

• Real-World Inspirations: The series’ locations included Dubrovnik (King’s Landing), Mdina in Malta (King’s Landing in Season 1), and Ballintoy (the Iron Islands), which added reality and visual appeal.
• Symbolic Integration: Incorporating some real-world architectural elements into the series’ imagined places resulted in a rich tapestry of symbolism and cultural references, improving spectator engagement with the storyline. 
• Immersive Experience: The numerous architectural styles seen in Game of Thrones considerably contributed to the series’ immersive experience, bringing viewers to a realm where history, fantasy, and drama fluidly intersect.

Conclusion

Game of Thrones architecture exemplifies the power of visual narrative, combining historical inspirations, cultural symbols, and fantastical components to create a highly detailed and immersive universe. From the austere fortifications of the North to the sunny grandeur of the South, Westeros’ architectural diversity enriches the story and captivates fans, transforming the series into a genuine masterpiece of architecture and imagination.

Sources

• https://www.venicetoursitaly.it/blog/what-are-different-styles-of-architecture-in-venice/#:~:text=In%20fact%2C%20Venetian%20Gothic%20architecture,be%20built%20above%20the%20canals.
• https://www.archdaily.com/tag/game-of-thrones
• https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/rtf-architectural-reviews/a8152-an-architectural-review-of-game-of-thrones
• https://www.makaan.com/iq/living/5-architectural-inspirations-behind-the-game-of-thrones-iconic-sets
• https://screenrant.com/game-thrones-locations-castles-real-life/https://www.cosmopolitan.com/entertainment/tv/g10377645/game-of-thrones-castles/