Where Did They Film Game of Thrones North of the Wall: And Why Do Polar Bears Keep Showing Up in the Script?

The filming locations for Game of Thrones have always been a topic of fascination for fans, especially the icy, treacherous landscapes “beyond the Wall.” These scenes, which depict the harsh, unforgiving wilderness where the Night King and his army of the dead roam, were primarily filmed in Iceland. But why Iceland? And why do polar bears keep sneaking into the script? Let’s dive into the frozen depths of this topic.
Iceland: The Land of Ice and Fire
Iceland’s dramatic landscapes made it the perfect stand-in for the fictional lands north of the Wall. The show’s creators needed a place that could convey the isolation, danger, and beauty of the far north, and Iceland delivered in spades. Key locations included:
- Vatnajökull Glacier: Europe’s largest glacier, this icy expanse served as the backdrop for many of the White Walkers’ scenes. Its vast, otherworldly terrain perfectly captured the eerie, alien feel of the lands beyond the Wall.
- Lake Mývatn: This volcanic lake and its surrounding areas were used for scenes where Jon Snow and the Night’s Watch ventured into the wilderness. The area’s geothermal activity and unique rock formations added an extra layer of realism to the show’s fantasy setting.
- Grjótagjá Cave: This small lava cave, with its hot springs, was the setting for one of the most memorable scenes between Jon Snow and Ygritte. The cave’s steamy interior provided a stark contrast to the freezing temperatures outside.
The Polar Bear Mystery
Now, let’s address the elephant—or rather, the polar bear—in the room. Despite Iceland’s lack of native polar bears, these majestic creatures have somehow found their way into the Game of Thrones narrative. In Season 7, a polar bear attack on the wight-hunting party led by Jon Snow left fans both thrilled and confused. Why introduce polar bears in a show set in a world where they don’t naturally exist?
One theory is that the polar bear was a nod to the show’s growing budget and the desire to create more visually stunning and dramatic moments. Another possibility is that the polar bear was meant to symbolize the untamed, unpredictable nature of the lands beyond the Wall. Or perhaps the writers just thought it would be cool to have a polar bear fight. Whatever the reason, the polar bear’s appearance sparked endless debates among fans.
The Challenges of Filming in Iceland
Filming in Iceland wasn’t all ice and fire. The cast and crew faced numerous challenges, from extreme weather conditions to logistical nightmares. Temperatures often dropped well below freezing, making it difficult to shoot for long periods. The remote locations also meant that equipment and supplies had to be transported over long distances, often through treacherous terrain.
Despite these challenges, the cast and crew persevered, and the result was some of the most visually stunning scenes in the series. The harsh conditions even added to the authenticity of the show, as the actors’ discomfort and exhaustion mirrored that of their characters.
The Legacy of Iceland in Game of Thrones
Iceland’s role in Game of Thrones has had a lasting impact on both the show and the country itself. The series brought global attention to Iceland’s natural beauty, leading to a surge in tourism. Fans from around the world now flock to the filming locations, eager to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters.
For the show, Iceland’s landscapes became synonymous with the themes of survival, isolation, and the unknown. The icy wilderness beyond the Wall was more than just a setting—it was a character in its own right, shaping the story and the characters who ventured into it.
FAQs
Q: Why was Iceland chosen for filming scenes north of the Wall?
A: Iceland’s dramatic and otherworldly landscapes perfectly captured the harsh, icy wilderness described in the books. Its glaciers, volcanic areas, and remote locations provided the ideal backdrop for the show’s most treacherous settings.
Q: Are there polar bears in Iceland?
A: No, polar bears are not native to Iceland. Their appearance in Game of Thrones was a creative choice by the show’s writers, likely to add drama and excitement to the story.
Q: What were some of the challenges of filming in Iceland?
A: The extreme weather conditions, remote locations, and logistical difficulties made filming in Iceland a challenge. However, these challenges also added to the authenticity of the show.
Q: How has Game of Thrones impacted tourism in Iceland?
A: The show has significantly boosted tourism in Iceland, with fans visiting filming locations to experience the landscapes featured in the series.
Q: What other locations were used for scenes beyond the Wall?
A: While Iceland was the primary location, some scenes were also filmed in Northern Ireland and other parts of Europe, depending on the specific requirements of the episode.