Bokar Fortress

Built-in the 1460s to guard the western entrance of Dubrovnik, Bokar Fortress is a remarkable example of elegant and practical defensive design. It's also one of the most well-known filming locations for Game of Thrones.

Bokar Fortress is one of the world's finest examples of 'harmonious and functional fortification architecture,' and was built to defend the western entrance to the city of Dubrovnik. It was designed and mostly built during the 1460s by Michelozzo di Bartolomeo, an Italian architect considered to be one of the great Renaissance pioneers. It was the most important defender of the Pile Gate's strategic importance.

Parts of the magnificent, almost perfectly cylindrical fort are perched on a detached rock allowing the seawater to pass beneath it – which can still be seen today. It is often called 'Zvjezdan,' a Serbo-Croat word meaning starry,' presumably for the amazing views of the light pollution-free night sky as you look out into the Adriatic Sea.

After a century of discussion over whether or not the fort should be completed, it was finally completed in 1570. The fort is now open all year and is perhaps best known as the site of the Dubrovnik Summer Festival performances. The fairytale-like Bokar Fortress appeared in Game of Thrones seasons two and three and is arguably best seen when Varys tells Tyrion he's 'very adept' at becoming the king's hand.

The stronghold is about a half-hour walk from Dubrovnik's historic center. Visitors can also drive there in 5 minutes from the same location.

Location: Dubrovnik, Croatia