Nestled in Spain’s Basque Country, Gaztelugatxe is a real-life replica of Game of Thrones’ iconic Dragonstone. Connected to the mainland by a slender man-made road, this small island has a small chapel dedicated to John the Baptist. Going up the narrow stone bridge with 231 winding steps, visitors reach the chapel with the promise of having their wishes fulfilled by ringing the bell three times. With origins dating back to the ninth century, Gaztelugatxe has weathered destruction, reconstruction, and diverse uses, from a monastery to a place of confinement during the Spanish Inquisition.
Famous for its cameo in the seventh season of Game of Thrones, Gaztelugatxe has become a magnet for thousands of visitors drawn by its historical appeal and the chance to catch a glimpse of the fictional kingdom of Daenerys Targaryen. The small island’s rich history, intertwined with myth and reality, resonates through its resilient architecture and now with the captivating allure of Dragonstone.
