Nestled in Spain's Basque Country, Gaztelugatxe stands as a real-life counterpart to Game of Thrones' iconic Dragonstone. Connected to the mainland by a slender man-made path, this islet harbors a small chapel dedicated to John the Baptist. Ascending the narrow stone bridge, comprised of 231 zig-zagging steps, visitors reach the chapel with the promise of wish fulfillment by ringing the bell three times. With origins dating back to the ninth century, Gaztelugatxe has weathered destruction, reconstruction, and diverse purposes, from a convent to a place of imprisonment during the Spanish Inquisition.
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Renowned for its cameo in Game of Thrones' seventh season, Gaztelugatxe has become a magnet for thousands of visitors drawn by its historical allure and the chance to glimpse the fictional realm of Daenerys Targaryen. The islet's rich history, intertwined with myth and reality, echoes through its resilient architecture, and now with the captivating allure of Dragonstone.
Top image: Sunrise on the San Juan de Gaztelugatxe Island, Spain. Source: samael334/Adobe Stock
