You might be surprised by how many iconic scenes from your favorite films and TV shows were actually shot in Croatia. This country's unique blend of medieval architecture and stunning landscapes has made it a go-to location for filmmakers. Visualize walking the same streets as the characters from Game of Thrones or visiting the picturesque island from Mamma Mia!. Curious about which Star Wars scenes were filmed there, or how Croatia doubled for various locations in Doctor Who? Explore the secrets behind these cinematic masterpieces and explore the allure of Croatia's versatile settings.
Key Takeaways
- Dubrovnik's medieval city was King's Landing in Game of Thrones.
- Trogir recreated 16th century Venice for Doctor Who.
- The island of Vis served as the backdrop for Mamma Mia!.
- Dubrovnik's Old Town became Canto Bight in Star Wars.
- Dubrovnik's historic architecture was used in Robin Hood.
Game of Thrones Locations
If you're a Game of Thrones fan, you'll be thrilled to know that many iconic scenes were filmed in Croatia.
Dubrovnik's medieval walled city was converted into King's Landing, the capital of Westeros. The Lovrijenac Fortress in Dubrovnik became the Red Keep, adding to the city's allure.
Split's Diocletian's Palace provided the eerie catacombs seen in various episodes.
On Lokrum Island, the Benedictine monastery featured as the House of Undying, where Daenerys Targaryen had her visions.
Moreover, the stunning Krka cascade waterfalls in Croatia's national park served as breathtaking backdrops.
These locations not only brought the fantasy realm to life but also showcased Croatia's rich history and natural beauty.
Doctor Who in Croatia
Beyond the imaginary domains of Game of Thrones, Croatia's picturesque town of Trogir set the stage for episodes of Doctor Who, converting into 16th century Venice and the vibrant canvas of Vincent Van Gogh.
In Series 5, the episode 'The Vampires of Venice' used Trogir's historic streets to recreate the Venetian atmosphere.
Moreover, parts of Trogir served as the backdrop for scenes depicting Vincent Van Gogh's post-impressionist realm.
Trogir, a small island connected to the mainland by several bridges, offered the perfect setting with its medieval architecture and coastal charm. Its detailed and authentic ambiance added depth to the series' narrative, showcasing Croatia's versatility as a filming location.
Mamma Mia! Filming Spots
When examining the filming locations of Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again, you'll find that the idyllic island of Vis took center stage. Key scenes were shot in the harbor of Komiža and the courtyards of Vis Town, highlighting the island's stunning coastal landscapes.
Furthermore, the western village of Barjoška and the famous Stiniva Beach provided the perfect backdrop for the movie's main plot.
Iconic Vis Filming Locations
The scenic island of Vis, with its stunning harbor of Komiža and the charming town of Vis, served as the enchanting backdrop for Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again.
The harbor of Komiža, with its picturesque boats and azure waters, captures the idyllic essence of the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi.
The courtyards in the town of Vis add a rustic charm, perfect for the film's vibrant musical scenes.
Don't miss the famous Stiniva Beach on the western tip of the island, renowned for its dramatic cliffs and secluded cove.
The film's portrayal of Vis highlights its rugged coastlines and Mediterranean atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for fans.
Key Scenes and Settings
You'll discover that some of the most unforgettable Mamma Mia! scenes were shot in the scenic settings of Vis, highlighting its natural beauty and charm. The island of Vis doubled as the Greek island of Kalokairi in 'Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again,' showcasing its coastal landscapes and vibrant locales.
Key scenes and settings include:
- Barjoska Village: Captured the essence of the island's local life.
- Stiniva Beach: Featured in stunning beach scenes, displaying its unique coastal beauty.
- Komiza Harbor: Used for border guard scenes, adding a touch of authenticity.
The Pansion Dionis in Vis Town provided a romantic backdrop, inspiring fans globally. The movie truly converted Vis into a must-visit destination for devotees.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Discover the magic behind the scenes as we immerse ourselves in the mesmerizing filming locations of Mamma Mia! on the island of Vis.
The island served as the stand-in for the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi in the 2018 film, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again. Key scenes were shot in the harbor of Komiza and the courtyards of the town of Vis, showcasing its stunning coastal scenery.
The western village of Barjoska was central to the main plot, while Stiniva Beach also featured prominently.
Previously a naval base, Vis offered a unique and picturesque backdrop, perfectly capturing the Mediterranean atmosphere. Its natural beauty enhanced the romantic story inspired by ABBA's beloved songs.
Star Wars Scenes
You'll find Dubrovnik's Old Town converted into the lavish coastal casino town of Canto Bight in Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
The city's striking 16th-century architecture provided a perfect backdrop, with oval windows lit up and a giant puppet parading through the historic streets.
Notable locations like the Gothic-style Church of St. Dominic and a former granary also took on new roles, becoming Nottingham Palace and Loxley Manor in the Star Wars universe.
Dubrovnik as Canto Bight
Dubrovnik's Old Town metamorphoses into the lavish casino city of Canto Bight in Star Wars: The Last Jedi, blending its 16th-century architecture with futuristic elements for an unforgettable setting.
The city's historical charm is highlighted through its Gothic structures, which were creatively repurposed to depict the opulence of Canto Bight.
Director Rian Johnson praised the unique settings, noting how Dubrovnik's architecture provided the perfect backdrop for the imaginative realm of Star Wars.
The transformation included:
- Oval windows illuminated with lights.
- A giant puppet being ridden through the streets.
- Historical buildings seamlessly integrated with futuristic designs.
These elements showcased Dubrovnik's versatility, turning it into a key location for one of the most iconic scenes in the Star Wars universe.
Iconic Filming Locations
Star Wars fans will be thrilled to know that several of the franchise's most iconic scenes were filmed in the stunning locations of Croatia.
Dubrovnik's Old Town was converted into the fictional coastal casino town of Canto Bight in The Last Jedi. The city's 16th-century architecture provided a perfect backdrop, creating a futuristic impression for the Star Wars universe. During filming, oval windows were lit up, and a giant puppet was ridden through Dubrovnik's streets.
Furthermore, the Gothic-style Church of St. Dominic served as Nottingham Palace, while a former granary in Dubrovnik took on the role of Loxley Manor. These locations added a unique and enthralling atmosphere to the Star Wars scenes, making them unforgettable for fans.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Director Rian Johnson's enthusiasm for Croatia's architectural charm led to some fascinating behind-the-scenes moments during the filming of Star Wars: The Last Jedi in Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik's medieval cityscape became the futuristic coastal casino town of Canto Bight. The narrow alleyways of Dubrovnik's Old Town were the perfect setting for thrilling scenes, such as speeders smashing through the streets.
The unique blend of medieval and coastal elements added authenticity to Canto Bight's design.
The historic narrow streets required careful coordination for the action-packed sequences.
The film crew's presence brought attention to Dubrovnik, highlighting it as a versatile filming location.
Croatia's diverse landscapes helped bring the fantastical realm of Canto Bight to life.
Robin Hood Sets
The medieval town of Nottingham in the 2018 film Robin Hood came to life in the heart of Dubrovnik's Old Town. The filmmakers altered the Gothic-style Church of St. Dominic into Nottingham Palace, capturing its intricate architecture.
For Loxley Manor, they used a former granary, showcasing Dubrovnik's versatile historic buildings. Actor Jamie Foxx, who starred in the movie, praised Dubrovnik's 'mind-blowing beauty' during filming, highlighting the city's allure.
The authentic medieval setting provided by Dubrovnik's historic architecture played a vital role in creating the film's atmosphere. Walking through Dubrovnik, you can almost feel the cinematic magic that turned these real-life locations into the legendary realm of Robin Hood.
The Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard
After exploring Dubrovnik's medieval charm in Robin Hood, let's venture to the coastal town of Rovinj, where The Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard brought its action-packed scenes to life. This 2021 action-comedy sequel partially filmed in Rovinj, capturing its Venetian-influenced architecture and lively yachting scene to stand in for Italy.
Other notable Croatian locations featured in the film include:
- Karlovac, Zagreb, and Rijeka: These cities provided urban and scenic backdrops.
- Buje and Vodnjan: Inland Istrian towns that added a rustic touch.
Rovinj: Served as the perfect Mediterranean setting with its coastal charm.
These diverse locations allowed the film to create the impression of a global journey, showcasing Croatia's versatility for international productions.
McMafia and Succession
Showcasing Croatia's impressive versatility, McMafia transported viewers across nine different countries, all while filming within its borders. The BBC crime drama cleverly used Croatia to double for locations like Turkey and Southern France. Towns such as Split and Rovinj stood in for places like Tel Aviv, highlighting Croatia's adaptability as a filming destination.
In the TV series Succession, the fictional Roy family's luxury yacht scenes were filmed off the Croatian coast. The country's picturesque Mediterranean scenery provided a stunning backdrop.
For fans inspired to visit these locations, Sovereign Luxury Travel offers Croatia-based luxury holidays, allowing you to discover the beautiful spots featured in these popular shows. Croatia's landscapes continue to attract top-tier productions, making it a sought-after filming locale.
