What do Disney’s Little Mermaid and Dubrovnik have in common?

What would you say if we told you that Little Mermaid and Dubrovnik have one very important thing in common?

Once upon a time, in the enchanting world of Disney, there lived a spirited young mermaid named Ariel, whose desire to explore the human world took her on a magical adventure under the sea. Yet, what if we told you that Ariel’s iconic emergence from the waves, with her luscious red hair cascading over her shoulders, was not just a stroke of Disney’s imaginative genius, but also owed a debt to a real-world coastal gem? That’s right, folks, the picturesque Croatian town of Dubrovnik played a surprising role in shaping the world of the Little Mermaid.

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As we journey beneath the surface of this delightful tale, we’ll uncover the curious connection between Disney’s animated masterpiece and the breathtaking shores of Dubrovnik, where crystal-clear waters meet ancient stone walls. Get ready to be swept away by a tale that seamlessly blends the realms of animation and reality, where the magic of imagination meets the magic of a real-life seaside paradise.

 

So, grab your dinglehoppers and join us as we explore the intriguing synergy between the fantastical world of Disney’s Little Mermaid and the captivating allure of Dubrovnik! 🧜🌊🏰

The Dubrovnik Inspiration Behind Disney's Little Mermaid

The Little Mermaid, which saw a recent adaptation starring Halle Bailey, made quite a splash at the box office earlier this year. While newer audiences may be enchanted by this tale, those of us with a few more years under our belts will fondly recall the original animated Ariel, Triton’s red-haired daughter, who captured our hearts. 

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What many might not realize is that the picturesque shores upon which Ariel finds herself washed up in the 1989 classic were none other than inspired by the enchanting city of Dubrovnik, nestled along the coast of Croatia. Dubrovnik, a place steeped in history, is renowned for its Old Town, ancient city walls, and imposing forts that majestically overlook the glistening Adriatic Sea. 

As you wander through Dubrovnik’s cobbled streets and gaze upon its medieval architecture, it becomes apparent why Disney’s creative minds found such inspiration in this coastal gem. So, if you squint just hard enough while standing atop those magnificent walls, you might just catch a glimpse of Ariel gracefully swimming below the surface, forever linking the magic of Disney to the allure of Dubrovnik. 

Pearl of the Adriatic

Dubrovnik, often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic,’ is a place where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create an enchanting experience unlike any other. Stepping foot in this ancient city is like entering a realm where time seems to stand still, where the very stones beneath your feet seem to whisper tales of centuries gone by. 

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The magic of Dubrovnik isn’t just in its awe-inspiring architecture, with its centuries-old walls and intricate stone streets, or the breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea from its fortified ramparts. It’s in the air you breathe, the warm sun on your skin, and the feeling of walking through a living, breathing piece of history. 

It’s a place where the past and present blend seamlessly, where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered, and where the magic of Dubrovnik becomes an unforgettable part of your own journey. 

From Game of Thrones to Star Wars: Dubrovnik's Iconic Film and TV Moments

Dubrovnik, with its stunning architecture and picturesque landscapes, has served as a popular location for various movies and TV series over the years. Here are some examples of both films inspired by Dubrovnik and productions filmed in the city: 

Movies Inspired by Dubrovnik:

 

Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017): Some scenes of the casino city of Canto Bight were filmed in Dubrovnik, adding to the film’s galactic charm.  

Movies and Series Filmed in Dubrovnik: 

Game of Thrones (2011-2019): Dubrovnik played a prominent role in the immensely popular series as the primary filming location for King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. The city’s historic walls, streets, and forts became instantly recognizable to fans of the show.

 

Robin Hood: Origins (2018): This film, starring Taron Egerton and Jamie Foxx, used Dubrovnik’s stunning scenery as a backdrop for various scenes, including those set in medieval Nottingham.

 

Knightfall (2017-2019): Dubrovnik was also featured in this historical drama series, which explored the history of the Knights Templar.

 

Borgia (2011-2014): Another historical drama series, Borgia, used Dubrovnik’s well-preserved architecture to recreate Renaissance-era Italy.

 

The Star Wars Sequel Trilogy: In addition to “The Last Jedi,” other Star Wars films, such as “The Force Awakens (2015)” and “The Rise of Skywalker (2019),” used Dubrovnik’s stunning locations for various scenes in the galaxy far, far away. 

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Notable Places Featured in Films

Shores of Dubrovnik that inspired Disney’s Little Mermaid are not the only place that captured the imagination of many filmmakers that came to Dubrovnik. 

 Old Town: Dubrovnik’s Old Town is the crown jewel of the city and has been a prime location for several productions. Its iconic city walls, limestone streets, and historic buildings provided the perfect backdrop for many scenes. In “Game of Thrones,” it was transformed into King’s Landing, where much of the series was set.

City Walls: The medieval city walls of Dubrovnik offer panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. These walls have featured prominently in many productions, including “Game of Thrones” and “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.” 

Fort Lovrijenac: This imposing fortress, also known as St. Lawrence Fortress, is perched on a cliff overlooking the sea and has been used as a filming location for both “Game of Thrones” (as the Red Keep) and “Robin Hood: Origins.” 

Rector’s Palace: The Rector’s Palace, a beautiful Gothic-Renaissance structure in Dubrovnik’s Old Town, has appeared in several films and series, including “Game of Thrones.”

 

Minčeta Tower: This impressive tower, part of Dubrovnik’s fortifications, has made appearances in “Game of Thrones,” particularly in scenes involving the House of the Undying.

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Stradun (Placa): The main street of Dubrovnik, Stradun (or Placa), with its distinctive limestone paving, has been featured in numerous productions for its unique charm and historic ambiance.

Island of Lokrum: Located just off the coast of Dubrovnik, this lush island has served as a backdrop for various scenes, including those set on the island of Ahch-To in the Star Wars sequel trilogy.

Cavtat: A picturesque town near Dubrovnik, Cavtat has also been used as a filming location. It provided scenes for “The Force Awakens” and “The Last Jedi.”

These locations have not only added to the visual appeal of the productions but have also introduced audiences to the beauty and rich history of Dubrovnik. The city’s ability to transform into different settings, from medieval kingdoms to distant galaxies, is a testament to its versatility as a filming location and its enduring charm in the world of cinema and television. 

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Unlock the Magic of Croatia: A Cinematic Journey Awaits!

🌍 In the world of cinema, Dubrovnik, Croatia, has proven time and again to be a place where fantasy meets reality. From the grandeur of King’s Landing in “Game of Thrones” to the cosmic allure of Canto Bight in “Star Wars: The Last Jedi,” this enchanting city has played host to countless cinematic adventures. But the magic of Dubrovnik doesn’t stop at the silver screen—it extends to the very streets, walls, and shores where these stories were brought to life. 

For movie buffs and travelers seeking a unique vacation experience, Croatia is a treasure trove of film locations waiting to be explored. With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and charming towns, it’s a destination that offers not only the allure of movie magic but also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the real-life charm of this Adriatic gem. 

So, if you’re ready to embark on a journey that seamlessly blends the reel and the real, it’s time to book your holiday in Croatia. Visit the iconic locations that have left their mark on Disney’s Little Mermaid and an array of other beloved films and series. Whether you’re strolling down the streets of King’s Landing, gazing upon the Adriatic from ancient city walls, or discovering the hidden treasures of this coastal paradise, Croatia promises a vacation that’s nothing short of magical. 

Pack your bags, bring your love for cinema, and let Croatia be your canvas for unforgettable adventures. Your cinematic voyage awaits—book your trip today and live the movies like never before! 🎥🌟 

Your CTC Team

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