Games of Thrones – Oldtown

The Torre de las Cigüeñas and the Plaza de las Veletas in Cáceres appeared in the first episode of the seventh season of Game of Thrones, portraying Oldtown, home to the Citadel where Samwell Tarly trains to become a maester. Although the scenes are brief and set at night, the recognizable architecture of Cáceres, including the Torre de las Cigüeñas, adds authenticity to the setting.

In this episode, a nighttime view of Oldtown is shown just before Sam steals books from the Restricted Section of the Citadel’s library. The scene features digitally added elements like a lighthouse to enhance the city’s depiction. The same locations reappear later in the fifth episode when Sam leaves Oldtown with his family and the stolen books.

The Torre de las Cigüeñas, part of the Palacio de las Cigüeñas, stands out for being the only tower spared from the height reduction decreed by Queen Isabella the Catholic. Built in the 15th century, the tower reflects its defensive heritage and loyalty to the Catholic Monarchs. Its name comes from the numerous storks that nest there, adding a distinctive feature to its silhouette.

The Plaza de las Veletas, dominated by the Palacio de las Veletas, adds another layer of historical depth to this location. The palace, constructed in the 15th century over the remains of an Almohad fortress, houses one of the best-preserved cisterns in the Iberian Peninsula, both in size and structure. The square hosts cultural events such as the Medieval Market in November and the Classical Theater Festival in June.

These locations, while briefly featured in the series, hold great significance for fans and visitors seeking to connect with the Game of Thrones universe. The scenes filmed here, enhanced with digital effects, transformed Cáceres into the mystical Oldtown, showcasing the city’s rich architectural and historical heritage.