«Game of Thrones» tourism in Spain

“Game of Thrones” is an American medieval fantasy adapted from George R.R Martin’s bestselling book ‘A Song of Ice and Fire’. The first episode came out on the 17^th of April 2011 and the Season 6’s episodes are now on TV. It depicts the story of powerful families battling for the control of the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros, and the quest of the Iron Throne. The episodes were filmed in different locations: Dubrovnik in Croatia, Co. Antrim and Co. Down in Northern Ireland, on the Island of Malta, in Essaouira and Ait-Ben-Haddou in Morocco and in a small but picturesque town near Seville, Osuna.

‘Game of Thrones’ boosts tourism in Osuna

Some of the scenes were filmed in 2014 and helped tremendously with boosting the economy of Osuna, a village which was slowly losing its population to the big Spanish cities. As soon as the “Game of Thrones” fans knew it had been filmed  in the area, tourism spiked, bringing life back to this small  town of  approximately 18,000 inhabitants. Today, Osuna has recovered  from the economic crisis, and is a lively city, thanks to the passionate  fans of the series.

What to do in Osuna

Osuna can easily be reached from Seville by car or train. UNESCO has named Calle San Pedro the second most beautiful street in Europe. The bull ring in Osuna is a must see if you are a fan of the series. It is very impressive and is the setting of the Khaleesi/fighting pits in Season 5.  Due to its strategic location on a hill, the whitewashed town has a rich history starting with Tartessians, the Turdetians, Romans and Moors. It was conquered by Julius Caesar, and was also an Arab conquest in 711. The Duke of Osuna (16th century) constructed many churches and monasteries. The Colegiata de Osuna is a church which hides many treasures, including a mausoleum belonging to the Osuna family. The Monasterio de la Encarnacion is also a visit not to be missed.  You can get a guided tour from one of the two only nuns allowed to take visitors around the monastery. It is a beautiful baroque monument from the 16^th century with great views of the town. Other interesting visits include the Palace of the Marques de la Gomera, Osuna University, the Church of Santa Maria de la Asuncion, El Coto Las Canteras (impressive quarry) and the Museo de Osuna, which has two rooms dedicated to the Game of Thrones. You can have your picture taken with a white walker and round up the visits with a meal the restaurant Casa Curro, which has a menu inspired by the Game of Throne series.

Where to stay in Osuna

If you are looking to stay in the area for a few days, BungalowsClub has two establishments nearby which will be a great base when touring Osuna, Seville and the many other places of interest.

The Bungalows Pueblo Blanco in Olvera (Cádiz) are located near a traditional Andalusian farmhouse, which has been beautifully renovated. The patio is the perfect spot to relax in the evening, making the most if the beautiful views. The bungalows are well equipped with a microwave, heating, air-con, fridge, shower, TV…The facilities include a restaurant, sports grounds, a supermarket, WI-FI. The main activities are visiting the typical whitewashed villages, horse-riding, hiking fishing, and speleology.

The Bungalows La Sierrecilla in Humilladero are also a great location. They are only an hour away from the cities of Seville, Granada and Cordoba. They offer all the comfort needed, with WIFI and numerous activities. After spending time visiting the Game of Thrones sites, you can go for hikes and find out more about the local wildlife. The area is home to eagles, vultures, flacons and pink flamingos. Both locations have disabled access and facilities.  They are located about 40 km away from the town of Osuna.

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Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons