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Astronomical Knowledge of the Mayans: Predictions, Calculations, and Meanings
Systematic Sky ObservationThe Mayan civilization, which flourished from approximately 2000 BCE to the 16th century, d...
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Movie Premieres in Spain: All the films coming ...
05 Aug 2026
The cinema billboard in Spain continues to be updated during August with options for all tastes. The film premieres bring together major international productions, family films, thrillers, comedies, and horror...
05 Aug 2026
4 min
Movie Premieres in Spain: All the films coming ...
Action, Adventure, and Suspense Hit Theaters This August August continues to offer a very varied movie billboard in Spain. Between August 7 and 14, 2026, new animated films for the whole family, comic and video game adaptations, as well as several thrillers and horror titles will be released. These are the most prominent releases that can be seen in Spanish cinemas during those days. PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie On August 7, 2026, Spanish cinemas will join the international premiere of PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie, which will arrive in theaters in numerous countries on the same day. The new adventure of the most famous puppies in cinema takes the PAW Patrol to an island full of dinosaurs. When an unexpected threat endangers the balance of the place, Ryder and his team must collaborate with new allies to protect these prehistoric creatures. The film combines action, humor, and values such as teamwork, offering a proposal designed for children and family audiences. The Last Monkey The Spanish audience will be able to see The Last Monkey on the big screen starting August 7, 2026, the day chosen for its theatrical release. This Spanish dramatic comedy follows an ordinary man whose life completely changes after getting involved in a chain of situations as absurd as they are unpredictable. Between humor and social criticism, the story reflects on personal relationships, survival, and the ability to adapt when everything seems to fall apart. Open Sea Spanish cinemas will receive Open Sea on August 7, 2026, the day chosen for the premiere of this survival thriller in Spain. The film places several characters trapped on the high seas after an excursion turns into a real nightmare. Without the possibility of asking for help, they must face both the dangers of the ocean and the conflicts that arise between them as they fight to stay alive. Marsupilami On August 12, 2026, Spanish cinemas will join the international premiere of Marsupilami, which will arrive in theaters in other territories on the same day. Before this official release, the film has some special pre-screenings in Spanish cinemas, while in its country of origin, France, it was released in February. The legendary character created by André Franquin returns to the big screen in a new adventure. Marsupilami must protect the lush jungle of Palombia from those who intend to exploit its natural resources. With a fast pace, abundant humor, and spectacular settings, the film is aimed at family audiences and fans of the celebrated character. A Handbook for Superheroes: The Red Mask On August 12, 2026, Spanish cinemas will receive the official premiere of A Handbook for Superheroes: The Red Mask, a Swedish production whose original title is Handbok för superhjältar. Based on the successful collection of children's books, the film tells the story of Lisa, a girl who discovers a mysterious handbook capable of teaching her extraordinary abilities. As she learns to control her new powers, she must face a dangerous criminal gang and discover that true heroism comes from courage, friendship, and self-confidence. Countdown On August 14, 2026, the international premiere of Countdown will take place, a British production that will arrive in Spanish cinemas on the same day. This action thriller revolves around an imminent threat that forces a small group of protagonists to act against the clock to avoid a catastrophe. The investigation becomes more complicated at every step, leading to a story full of tension, chases, and unexpected twists where every minute is decisive. The End of Oak Street On August 14, 2026, the international premiere of The End of Oak Street will take place, an American production that can be seen on the same day in Spanish cinemas. Psychological terror stars in this story set in a quiet neighborhood where inexplicable events begin to occur. What at first seem like isolated incidents ends up revealing a dark secret related to the past of Oak Street. The film opts for an unsettling atmosphere, a mystery that grows progressively, and an ending designed to surprise the viewer.
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Return to Hogwarts: The new Harry Potter series...
27 Jul 2026
The new Harry Potter series for HBO prepares to return to the magical world of Hogwarts with a more extensive adaptation, closer to J.K. Rowling's books. The project promises to...
27 Jul 2026
4 min
Return to Hogwarts: The new Harry Potter series...
The new TV adaptation that will bring magic back to Hogwarts Hogwarts opens its doors once again. They say some stories never truly leave; they just wait for the right moment to be retold. J.K. Rowling's magical world is one of them. Now, that return is real: Warner Bros. Discovery is preparing a new Harry Potter series for HBO, expected to premiere around 2027. But this time, there will be no rush or cut footage. The promise is clear: to tell the story as in the books, with time, detail… and without losing anything along the way. A slower, more complete Hogwarts, designed to last for years The idea is simple, yet ambitious: seven seasons, seven books. A complete journey through Hogwarts, from young Harry's arrival to the end of the grand story. However, within the industry, there's already talk of something even bigger: a project that could span nearly a decade, with seasons potentially extended or divided depending on the development of each book. Production will begin at the mythical Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden, where the original films were already shot. That is, the same ground, but a completely new way of telling the story. Behind the scenes, Francesca Gardiner will serve as showrunner, and Mark Mylod will direct several episodes. Their experience in intense dramas has led many to expect a more mature, emotional, and profound version of the magical world. The new cast: excitement, nostalgia, and debate The doors are opening again at Hogwarts Castle, but the faces are changing. For the main roles (Harry, Hermione, and Ron), young actors are being sought in the UK and Ireland, with open castings looking for new faces, not well-known stars. But there are already confirmed names that have ignited conversation. John Lithgow will be the new Dumbledore, Janet McTeer will play McGonagall, and Paapa Essiedu will bring Severus Snape to life. And this is where magic mixes with controversy. Snape, the character who has generated the most debate Severus Snape is one of the most complex characters in the entire saga. In the books, his appearance is very specific: sallow skin, a hooked nose, a dark look, and an uncomfortable, almost unsettling presence. Therefore, the choice of Paapa Essiedu has divided fans. One part of the audience criticizes that the actor does not physically match the original description and fears that this change will alter how the character is understood, especially his history of bullying at Hogwarts, where his appearance played an important role, and his relationship with the Marauders. Others go further and believe that the change could alter the subtext of the story, introducing racial interpretations that were not in the books. But, on the other side of the conversation, many argue the opposite: that Snape is a character of interpretation, not appearance; that what matters is the acting, not exact physical fidelity; and that limiting casting based on literal traits impoverishes the adaptation. Even actors from the original cast, such as Jason Isaacs, have criticized the negative reaction of some fans, defending the creative freedom of the project, although part of the audience considers that this creative freedom contradicts the initial promise of making an adaptation extremely faithful to the novels. A new vision of the magical world The new Harry Potter series is not just a remake. It is a complete re-reading of the magical world, with more time, more depth, and new creative decisions. Between fidelity to the books and modern reinterpretation, the project walks a delicate line. And there lies precisely its magic... and also its risk.
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The Walking Dead: Dead City Season 3 already ha...
17 Jul 2026
The Walking Dead: Dead City's third season is already preparing for its return, with Maggie and Negan facing new challenges in a Manhattan more dangerous than ever. AMC's spin-off promises...
17 Jul 2026
3 min
The Walking Dead: Dead City Season 3 already ha...
The Highly Anticipated Season 3 Premiere of The Walking Dead: Dead City Fans of The Walking Dead universe already have a date circled in red. The third season of The Walking Dead: Dead City is not only a reality, but it already has confirmed premiere dates in the United States and Spain, and promises to once again place Maggie and Negan at the center of a story full of tension, survival, and impossible decisions on the devastated island of Manhattan. AMC has confirmed that the series will return on July 26, 2026, in the United States, available via AMC and AMC+, while in Spain the premiere will arrive with virtually no wait, on July 27, 2026, exclusively on AMC+. A minimal difference that reinforces the network's strategy to keep international fans almost at the same pace as the American audience. A More Hostile Manhattan and an Alliance That Is Never Not Fragile The new season picks up the story after the events of the second installment, with Maggie and Negan forced to move forward in an environment where surviving is no longer enough: now they must also build something akin to a community amidst the chaos. But Manhattan offers no respite. Between new enemies, internal conflicts, and the constant threat of walkers, the relationship between both characters is once again pushed to the limit. Their story, marked by the past, continues to evolve in a direction as unpredictable as it is dangerous, where every decision can change everything. The first trailer already points to a more intense and ambitious season: more action, more confrontations, and an even greater presence of walkers in a setting that becomes increasingly oppressive. Added to this are new conflicts between communities that heighten the sense of constant instability on the island. Lauren Cohan and Jeffrey Dean Morgan return once again as Maggie and Negan, two key figures within The Walking Dead universe whose dynamic remains one of the series' greatest emotional drivers. The Return of Dead City: One of AMC's Big Bets for Summer 2026 Although AMC is still keeping much of the plot under wraps, everything indicates that this third season of Dead City aims to go a step further in narrative ambition, further expanding the universe created by Robert Kirkman and consolidating the spin-off as one of the franchise's most solid. With a premiere set for July 27 in Spain, the series positions itself as one of the great television events of summer 2026 for fans of the zombie genre. It's not just the return of two iconic characters: it's the continuation of a story that continues to explore how far humanity can go when everything else has fallen apart. And while AMC maintains the mystery about the saga's future, Dead City returns with the promise of what it does best: constant tension, survival at the limit, and characters forced to confront both the dead and their own ghosts.
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The Odyssey: Christopher Nolan's big premiere c...
15 Jul 2026
Christopher Nolan brings a new version of The Odyssey, one of the most influential stories of all time, to the big screen. With a top-tier cast and large-scale production, the...
15 Jul 2026
3 min
The Odyssey: Christopher Nolan's big premiere c...
Premiere in SpainThe Odyssey arrives in cinemas on July 17, 2026, in an international premiere, including Spain, where it will also be available from day one. This is a new adaptation of the classic work of the same name, the epic poem created by Homer, returning to the big screen with a visual and narrative ambition that places it among the most anticipated releases of the year. The original story, written centuries ago, narrates the return of the hero Odysseus to his home after the Trojan War.An impossible journey filled with mythical creatures, gods, storms, and human decisions that test intelligence, patience, and the will to survive.An epic journey between gods, monsters, and a hero lost at seaThe plot of this new adaptation follows the essence of the classic poem: the return of Odysseus to Ithaca, where his wife Penelope and son Telemachus await him.But the path is far from simple. After the war, the hero is swept by the gods into a years-long journey where he faces cyclops, sirens, sorceresses, and seemingly endless storms. The Odyssey is a story of survival, identity, and destiny, and this cinematic version promises to convey that journey on a modern visual scale, with a more realistic approach, but without losing the mythical tone of the original work.The protagonist, Odysseus, is presented as an intelligent man, but exhausted by war, who not only fights external enemies but also his own desire to return home.Meanwhile, in Ithaca, his family endures while the throne is besieged by suitors seeking to take his place. A luxury cast and a large-scale productionThe Odyssey (2026) is directed by Christopher Nolan, known for his realistic visual style and complex stories.The cast brings together several international stars who play the main characters of the poem, including Odysseus, Penelope, Telemachus, and various mythological figures. The film has been shot in multiple natural locations around the world, with special attention to maritime landscapes, rugged coasts, and environments that reinforce the feeling of constant travel.Nolan has opted, as in other productions, for a high use of practical effects and real sets to give more authenticity to the story. Although not all production details have been revealed, it is known that the filming has been demanding, with long days at sea and changing weather conditions that have forced the team to constantly adapt.Behind the scenes: a production as difficult as Odysseus's own journeyOne of the most commented aspects of The Odyssey (2026) is its filming in real sailing conditions.The team has worked in real maritime settings to recreate the feeling of isolation and danger of the journey. According to the usual dynamics of this type of production, the use of practical effects entails significant challenges: unpredictable tides, constant light changes, and scenes that must be repeated several times for safety.These types of decisions seek for the viewer to feel the sea as another character within the story. It has also been commented in production circles that some sequences have required complex coordination between boats, moving cameras, and action specialists, which has made the filming an intense experience for the technical and artistic team. Now, the public can only eagerly await to see the final result of the exhaustive work and challenges undertaken by the production.
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Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced: the imagi...
13 Jul 2026
The name Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced has generated great anticipation among fans of the saga. Although there is no official announcement, the possibility of a remake or a revamped...
13 Jul 2026
3 min
Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced: the imagi...
Fans' Desire for the Return of Assassin's Creed Black Flag The name Assassin's Creed Black Flag is once again strongly present in the conversation of the gaming community. On social media, forums, and fan videos, the term "Black Flag Resynced" has begun to circulate, an expression that has sparked excitement among players, as many interpret it as the possibility of a remake or a modernized version of the original game—that is, a way to relive the Caribbean pirate adventure with updated graphics and mechanics. Although there is no official confirmation with that exact name, the idea of reliving this pirate adventure has reignited the nostalgia of millions of players who consider this game to be one of the highest points of the entire franchise. The Dream of Sailing the Caribbean as a Pirate Again What made Assassin's Creed Black Flag unforgettable was not just its story, but the complete sense of freedom it offered. Players were not limited to following a plot: they became a pirate in an open world full of life, dangers, and opportunities. From the very first moment, the sea becomes the true protagonist. Sailing through storms, chasing enemy ships, boarding vessels in the midst of battle, and exploring hidden islands were all part of daily life in the game's Caribbean. That feeling of living without limits is what many players remember most vividly. The concept of "Black Flag Resynced," born within the gaming community, stems precisely from this: imagining what that same world would be like, but rebuilt with current technology. Fans envision more realistic oceans, with more detailed waves, more intense weather changes, and much more spectacular naval battles, where each encounter feels more alive and cinematic. Edward Kenway and a World That Begs to Be Explored Again The heart of Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag is its protagonist, Edward Kenway, a pirate who navigates ambition, survival, and the pursuit of freedom in an era dominated by betrayal and war at sea. Throughout his story, players not only participate in combat or missions but also experience a personal transformation within a world where every decision has consequences. It is precisely this blend of adventure and narrative that has kept the game relevant for over a decade. That's why the idea of a potential remake generates so much anticipation. Players imagine what it would be like to roam the Caribbean again with a more expressive Edward Kenway, in a more detailed environment, with bustling cities, active ports, and missions that leverage current technology to offer a more immersive experience. A Classic That Never Stopped Sailing As long as there is no official confirmation from Ubisoft, "Black Flag Resynced" remains an idea driven by the community. A concept that represents a collective desire more than a confirmed real product. However, the interest shows something important: Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag has not disappeared. It lives on in the memory of players, in videos, in conversations, and in the nostalgia of those who experienced it at the time. Because there are games that don't entirely age, they just wait for the moment when someone lights their sails again and makes them cruise once more.
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Anime premieres in July 2026: The most anticipa...
06 Jul 2026
The summer season usually concentrates some of the most notable anime releases, making it a key moment to discover new stories and the return of established sagas. If you want...
06 Jul 2026
4 min
Anime premieres in July 2026: The most anticipa...
July Anime: The Summer 2026 Season Begins July 2026 will bring a new wave of anime premieres that promise to capture the attention of fans in Spain and much of the world. The season will be marked by adaptations of successful light novels and manga, as well as the return of very popular franchises. Romance, fantasy, action, and isekai will headline a lineup that will arrive on Japanese television as well as streaming platforms like Crunchyroll. Love Unseen Beneath the Clear Night Sky This anticipated anime will officially premiere on July 6, 2026. The series adapts the light novel written by Nanigashi Shima, while the animation is handled by studio MAKARIA, under the direction of Joe Yoshizaki. As is customary for this type of production, it will feature episodes of approximately 24 minutes. The story follows Kakeru Sorano, a university student who meets Koharu Fuyutsuki, a blind young woman with a cheerful personality full of dreams. What begins as a small gesture of kindness turns into an emotional love story that explores self-improvement, trust, and the importance of finding light even in the most difficult moments. It is shaping up to be one of the most promising romances of the summer. Trapped in a Dating Sim: The World of Otome Games Is Tough for Mobs Season 2 The second season of this anime will arrive on July 8, 2026. It is based on the light novels written by Yomu Mishima and illustrated by Monda, with production once again by studio ENGI and episodes lasting about 24 minutes. The series continues the adventures of Leon, an office worker reincarnated into an otome video game where men are barely important within society. Thanks to the knowledge he retains from his previous life, he will try to challenge the established norms while facing new enemies, conspiracies, and situations that are as absurd as they are amusing. Clevatess Season 2 Fans of dark fantasy can enjoy Season 2 of Clevatess, scheduled for release in July 2026, although the exact day has not yet been confirmed. The anime adapts the manga created by Yuji Iwahara, published since 2020, and keeps Lay-duce studio at the helm of production. The expected duration is 24 minutes per episode. The story continues to show the journey of Clevatess, one of the Dark Beast Lords, who ends up forming an unexpected alliance with a resurrected heroine and a human baby. Together they must face a world on the brink of destruction while discovering secrets that could change everyone's destiny. Though I Am an Inept Villainess This anime will arrive on Crunchyroll during July 2026, although a specific release date has not yet been announced. The adaptation is based on the light novels written by Satsuki Nakamura and illustrated by YukiKana, and also has a manga adaptation by Ei Ohitsuji. Production will be handled by Doga Kobo studio, with episodes lasting about 24 minutes. The story features an unexpected body swap between Reirin and Keigetsu, two young women vying for the crown prince's favor. What seemed like simple revenge turns into a complex political conspiracy within the imperial palace. Forced to survive in each other's lives, both will uncover secrets that will endanger not only their future, but also the balance of the kingdom. I Became a Legend after My 10 Year-Long Last Stand Another of the summer's big premieres will be I Became a Legend after My 10 Year-Long Last Stand, scheduled for July 2026, although the date is not yet confirmed for Spain. The series adapts the light novels written by Gingitsune Ezo and illustrated by DeeCHA, and also features a manga adaptation by Chako Abeno. The anime will be produced by GEKKOU studio with an approximate duration of 24 minutes per episode. The plot revolves around Luck, a warrior who decides to stay alone defending a fortress against a demonic army for ten years to allow his comrades to escape. After becoming a true living legend, he must learn to navigate a world completely different from the one he left behind, where his fame will completely change his destiny.
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One Piece in July 2026: releases, One Piece Day...
01 Jul 2026
The One Piece universe faces a decisive month for its fans.Between new releases, celebrations, and the possibility of important announcements, July 2026 promises to bring news that could set the...
01 Jul 2026
3 min
One Piece in July 2026: releases, One Piece Day...
July 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most important months of the year for One Piece fans. The franchise created by Eiichiro Oda is preparing a series of events that include the premiere of a new anime, the celebration of One Piece Day, and anticipation for possible announcements related to the series' remake, the Netflix live-action, and future projects. If you're a fan of the Straw Hat universe, here are all the One Piece news in July 2026 that you won't want to miss. One Piece: Heroines Arrives in July with New Stories Starring the Series' Heroines The first big event of the month will take place on July 5 in Japan, the chosen date for the premiere of One Piece: Heroines. This is an anime special inspired by the popular light novels of the same name, offering a different view of the One Piece world by focusing on some of its most beloved female characters. The protagonists of these stories are Nami, Nico Robin, Vivi, and Perona, who will experience new adventures with a refreshed visual style that differs from the main anime produced by Toei Animation. Fans in Spain and the rest of the world won't have to wait long, as Netflix will release One Piece: Heroines on July 11, thus expanding the franchise's content catalog on the platform. This release provides an opportunity to learn about new facets of these characters and keep interest alive while other projects in the universe created by Eiichiro Oda continue to develop. July 22: One Piece Day Another red-letter date for fans will be July 22, officially known as One Piece Day. The choice is no coincidence, as on that same day in 1997, the manga began publication in Weekly Shōnen Jump magazine, marking the beginning of one of the most successful stories in manga and anime. Each year, this celebration brings together millions of fans from around the world and is usually accompanied by special illustrations, merchandise, commemorative campaigns, and various activities organized by the franchise, and its 29th anniversary will be no exception. In addition, One Piece Day has become a regular time to share new trailers, promotional images, or announcements related to the series' upcoming projects, which keeps the community highly attentive to any news during those dates. Possible Major Announcements for the Franchise on One Piece Day 2026 Along with the anniversary celebration, the eagerly anticipated One Piece Day 2026 once again generates enormous excitement among fans. Although the final program has not yet been fully confirmed, everything suggests that the event will provide information about some of the franchise's most important projects. Among the possibilities that generate the most interest are new images from The One Piece remake, produced by WIT Studio, previews of the second season of Netflix's One Piece live-action, news about the weekly anime, and even possible announcements related to video games or future specials. As usual, One Piece Day will also feature special guests, activities for fans, and exclusive content dedicated to Eiichiro Oda's work. With the premiere of One Piece: Heroines, the celebration of One Piece Day, and the anticipation surrounding One Piece Day 2026, July promises to be an unmissable month for all fans of the franchise. Whether you're a manga reader, follow the anime, or the Netflix adaptation, the coming weeks will be full of news that could shape the future of one of the most important sagas in Japanese popular culture.
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The return of three manga legends: Bleach, Hunt...
29 Jun 2026
June brings the anticipated return of three of manga's most influential franchises: Bleach, Hunter x Hunter, and Berserk. Between new chapters, continuations, and potential announcements, this summer promises to be...
29 Jun 2026
4 min
The return of three manga legends: Bleach, Hunt...
June is shaping up to be one of the most intense months of the year for manga readers. Between comebacks, unreleased chapters, and highly anticipated announcements, three names are once again dominating the conversation: Bleach, Hunter x Hunter, and Berserk. This summer not only brings new releases, but also moments that could mark the future of three of the most influential manga series. New installments will arrive in Spain with official Spanish translation, typically between one and four weeks after their publication in Japan, depending on the publisher and edition format. Berserk: The Continuity of a Legacy The case of Berserk is different: it's not a one-off return, but a structured continuity. During June and July 2026, a series of consecutive chapters will be published, keeping Guts' story alive after the most recent arc of the manga. July 10th is planned as one of the key moments of this batch, with the conclusion of the trilogy of chapters that began on June 12th. The work continues under the supervision of Kouji Mori and Studio Gaga, who are developing the story while respecting the original material left by Kentaro Miura. The world of Berserk continues to advance in an increasingly dark and symbolic environment, where survival, revenge, and the supernatural are constantly intertwined. Furthermore, this return coincides with the arrival of new luxury editions in Spain, allowing readers to discover—or rediscover—a work that remains an absolute benchmark of dark fantasy more than three decades after its inception. Hunter x Hunter: Confirmed Return After More Than a Year-Long Hiatus The return of Hunter x Hunter is one of the most anticipated of the year. On June 29th in Japan (June 28th, 5 PM, in Spain), chapter 411 was published in Japan, marking the manga's reactivation after a long hiatus of over 500 days. A return that is received almost simultaneously thanks to digital distribution and international editions in the original language and its English translation, although its official Spanish translation will still take a little longer to be available. The story resumes the journey to the Dark Continent, one of the manga's most complex arcs, where multiple factions—princes, mafias, hunters, and assassins—compete within a closed environment on a moving ship. Although several chapters have already been completed in advance, the big mystery remains how many will be published consecutively. This makes each new installment an unpredictable event, which is already part of the series' identity. Bleach: The Possible Return with the Hell Arc The universe of Bleach is once again in the spotlight. In Spain, the main focus is on two simultaneous movements: the conclusion of the Thousand-Year Blood War anime during July and the possible return of the manga with the so-called Hell Arc, which was presented in a special chapter where the story jumps several years after the original ending and shows Ichigo and the other characters as adults, with a spiritual world that once again shows imbalances, leaving the door open for a possible new serialization. Although the manga's return has not been confirmed, many indications suggest that it is closer than ever, and what's truly exciting is that the end of the anime may coincide with the official announcement of the manga's return, which would make this summer one of the most important moments for Bleach since its original publication ended. Although it is not a sure or definitive announcement, it is a latent possibility that keeps the hope of thousands of fans alive. The continuation of the Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Calamity anime is scheduled to premiere in July 2026 on platforms like Disney+. Although a preview of the first three chapters and extra material like interviews is being held in June in cinemas for some countries, unfortunately, Spain has not been included among them...
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Four Spanish castles that look like they're str...
25 Jun 2026
Spain preserves some of the most spectacular medieval fortresses in Europe, built on mountains, hills, and strategic enclaves. Castles such as Zafra, Almodóvar del Río, Loarre, and Ponferrada stand out...
25 Jun 2026
5 min
Four Spanish castles that look like they're str...
Spain preserves some of the most spectacular medieval fortresses in Europe. Many were built on mountains, cliffs, or strategic hills to control roads, borders, and entire territories. Centuries after their construction, some of these fortresses are still so impressive that it's easy to associate them with the castles described by George R. R. Martin in the A Song of Ice and Fire novels or with the settings seen in the Game of Thrones series. Among them, four castles stand out, which, due to their location, appearance, or atmosphere, seem to belong to the world of Westeros: Zafra, Almodóvar del Río, Loarre, and Ponferrada. Zafra Castle: the fortress of secrets Zafra Castle in Guadalajara, Spain, was built during the 12th century on a narrow rocky ridge. The first thing that stands out is that it barely seems to have been built on the rock: it seems to emerge directly from it. The towers rise above enormous blocks of bare stone and the walls follow the irregular shapes of the terrain. From a distance, the complex gives the impression of being an almost inaccessible fortress. It is no coincidence that it was chosen to represent the Tower of Joy in the Game of Thrones series, an event for which it gained international fame. In the series, that place had to convey isolation, mystery, and a sense of being located at the end of the world. The castle already possessed exactly those characteristics. Key scenes related to Ned Stark's past and Jon Snow's origin were filmed there, taking advantage of the fact that it already conveyed that feeling. Almodóvar del Río Castle: the castle of the great lords Almodóvar del Río Castle has dominated a hill overlooking the Guadalquivir valley for over a thousand years. Its origin is Islamic, although it was expanded and transformed over centuries. Several crenellated towers stand out above the walls, forming a kind of stone crown visible from kilometers away. The Game of Thrones production used it to represent Highgarden, the seat of House Tyrell. The choice is easy to understand: in the books, Highgarden is described as the seat of one of the richest and most powerful families in Westeros, surrounded by fertile lands and gardens. The Cordoban castle shares that image of lordly power. It not only conveys military strength but also projects wealth, prestige, and control over the surrounding territory, exactly what was expected of the most powerful house in the Reach. Loarre Castle: a fortress worthy of the North Built in the 11th century, Loarre Castle stands on a mountain in the province of Huesca. It is one of the best-preserved Romanesque castles in Europe; its walls follow the curves of the mountain and seem to be part of the landscape itself. The gray stone towers stand out against the horizon of the Pyrenees, while forests and plains stretch at its feet. Although it never appeared in the series, many fans compare it to the fortresses of the North of Westeros. There is no official equivalent, but its massive walls, austere appearance, and mountainous surroundings recall the image that readers usually imagine when thinking of Winterfell or other northern fortresses described. Ponferrada Castle: the power of a Templar fortress Ponferrada Castle, in León, was one of the main fortresses of the Knights Templar on the Iberian Peninsula. Unlike other more stylized castles, here the feeling of military power dominates. The walls are enormous, the towers multiply around the enclosure, and the defensive gates clearly show their strategic function. Anyone who sees it can easily imagine a castle belonging to one of the great noble houses of Westeros. Its dimensions and complexity recall the border fortresses described in the novels, built to protect entire territories and house permanent garrisons. Particularly striking are the different defensive lines surrounding the enclosure, a characteristic that fits perfectly with the great military fortresses of the Game of Thrones universe. Spanish Game of Thrones settings, beyond the castles In addition to medieval castles, Spain provided several real locations that the Game of Thrones production used, almost without needing transformation, taking advantage of their architecture and surroundings as they exist. The Real Alcázar of Seville was chosen to represent the Water Gardens of Dorne. Its inner courtyards, with horseshoe arches, tiles, fountains, and ponds, create an enclosed space where water and light are protagonists, fitting the image of a warm and refined palace. The monumental city of Cáceres became King's Landing. Its stone streets, medieval towers, and irregular squares served as the basis for the capital of Westeros, complemented by digital effects to expand the city and reinforce its political scale. The complex of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe was used as Dragonstone. Its access via a narrow stone bridge over the sea, combined with a climb of more than 200 steps, reinforces the feeling of an isolated, strategic, and difficult-to-reach place. The Roman site of Itálica, near Seville, was transformed into the Dragonpit. Its stone amphitheater, with a circular shape and deep stands, served as a setting for key meetings within the story. Each of these real spaces contributed a distinct visual identity to the series, integrating historical architecture and audiovisual narrative into a single visual composition.
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