The endless saga of Game of Thrones will be back on TV in a couple of weeks, for the last time—but the G.O.T. tourism season in Northern Ireland is already underway, and there may be no end to its run.
Significant parts of all eight seasons were filmed on Ulster locations, and HBO and tourism authorities have cut a deal that recognizes Northern Ireland as official Game of Thrones territory, entitled to use the licenses and names without fear of attacks from ancient warriors or supernatural intrusions.
Much of the fascination is with the scenes and sets from the series, with costumed guides welcoming visitors, but there are also other attractions, including an 80-metre long tapestry depicting scenes from the show, including coronations, stabbings, beheadings and battles. It’s been seen by over 150,000 people so far.
Later this year, it will go on tour and will be displayed in Normandy, next to its inspiration, the Bayeux Tapestry that depicts the Norman conquest of England in the 11th century.
