Šibenik officially confirmed as shooting location for Game of Thrones season 5

The town of Šibenik, Croatia, has been rumored to be a new location for Game of Thrones since May, with one Croatian site stating that filming was “definitely” going to happen, and mentions of Šibenik on Embassy Films’ application for extras work.

Finally this week, in a public statement from Deputy Mayor Danijel Mileta, town officials confirmed the show will be shooting in September.

The announcement, however, has been met with some local controversy. According to Šibenik.in, HBO has had trouble securing one location in the center of town due to a bishop’s objections. Because of the content and themes of Game of Thrones, the bishop has decided he doesn’t want the diocese-managed building to be a part in the project.

Given the area being discussed and the diocese’s involvement, the site is almost certainly the Cathedral of St. James. The potential location is referred to as an important one for season five, and it requires actors to pass through the portal. The structure would be recognizable, pointing to exterior shots. The Cathedral’s ornate portal is distinct, as are some other aspects of its exterior, such as the heads on the facade of the building.

Meetings are allegedly continuing this week in an effort to resolve the matter.

The search for extras in Šibenik continues this summer, with casting being held on July 21st, in the town hall from 2PM to 7PM. People interested are to contact Embassy Films only through the Facebook page set up for the casting.

Ours is the Fury: There are a lot of ways they could use the town of Šibenik, as people have speculated in past comment threads. If they are looking to use the Cathedral of St. James, though, it seems like it would be great for House of Black and White exteriors. Thanks to Rabbit for the heads up on Šibenik!

• Published on 07/13/2014 at 5:08 PM CDT
• Last updated on 10/21/2016 at 12:41 PM CDT