20 de August, 2024
Looking for a list of series and films shot in Spain? You’re in the right place! Spain has become one of the top destinations for international filming, thanks to its diverse landscapes, government tax incentives, and easy access to historical landmarks. Additionally, the local film industry is one of the most dynamic in Europe, attracting global productions with its vast range of settings and highly skilled technical professionals.
Global interest in Spain as a film location began with Sergio Leone’s “spaghetti westerns,” shot in the arid region of Almería. Recently, major productions like James Bond, Star Wars, Game of Thrones, and The Crown have further solidified Spain’s reputation as a prime filming destination. The popular Spanish series La Casa de Papel also played a key role in putting the country on the international stage.
Exploring the various regions of Spain through films shot there offers a unique way to dive into the country’s culture and history. Below, we’ll revisit some notable productions filmed in Spain.
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Seville is a true paradise for cinema lovers. The city has served as a backdrop for major fantasy franchises like Star Wars and Game of Thrones, as well as classics such as Lawrence of Arabia, 1492: Conquest of Paradise, and Kingdom of Heaven.
Bilbao, with its modern architecture and vibrant setting, has also become a prominent cinematic destination.
In addition to Bilbao, James Bond has appeared in other locations in Spain, including Cádiz and Madrid, in various films of the franchise.
Madrid is a major cinematic hub in Spain, featuring in numerous international and local productions. The Spanish capital is showcased in thrilling action scenes in The Bourne Ultimatum (2007), where Jason Bourne, played by Matt Damon, navigates the bustling streets of Madrid during high-octane chases. The city also plays a key role in the hit series La Casa de Papel, with the iconic heist at the Royal Mint being filmed at locations like the Higher Council for Scientific Research (CSIC).
In the film adaptation of Perfume: The Story of a Murderer, based on Patrick Süskind’s novel, Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter was chosen to represent 18th-century Paris. Director Tom Tykwer captured the dark, sensory essence of the film in locations such as Plaza Real and Plaza Sant Felip Neri, enhancing the movie’s atmosphere.
Plaza Real becomes the setting where the protagonist, Jean-Baptiste Grenouille, discovers a perfume shop. Plaza Sant Felip Neri serves as the backdrop for a tense chase involving a red-haired vendor. Additionally, the area around Barcelona Cathedral is used to evoke the various scents Grenouille seeks. The Gothic Quarter, with its medieval ambiance and winding streets, accentuates the protagonist’s quest for the perfect perfume.
Woody Allen played a significant role in promoting Spain as a cinematic destination. In Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008), starring Scarlett Johansson, Javier Bardem, and Penélope Cruz, he chose to film in Barcelona and the charming city of Oviedo in Asturias. The renowned American director has always had a special affection for Oviedo, where he was honored with a statue in Plaza de la Escandalera after receiving the Prince of Asturias Award in 2002. However, the scenes in Barcelona, featuring Gaudí’s stunning architecture and historic neighborhoods, also received considerable attention in the film.
The Canary Islands have become a popular destination for international filming, including major Hollywood productions, thanks to their diverse landscapes and attractive tax incentives (Canary Islands Film) (Olive Press News Spain). Recently, the Canaries have been featured in films such as Marvel’s Eternals.
Additionally, Solo: A Star Wars Story was partially shot in the desert landscapes of Fuerteventura. In 2024, Disney is returning to the region to film another installment in the Star Wars saga, utilizing the islands’ unique settings to create new intergalactic worlds.
A significant portion of the series The Witcher, inspired by Andrzej Sapkowski’s work, was filmed in Spain, particularly in the Canary Islands, leveraging their distinctive and varied landscapes. According to Canary Islands Film, the archipelago hosted 164 productions in 2022, generating €224 million in investment—an impressive 128% increase from the previous year.
Almería, in Andalusia, is a true cinematic icon. The region has served as a backdrop for over 100 films since the 1950s, attracting major productions with its diverse landscapes, including beaches, deserts, and ancient cities.
Almería has also hosted numerous other major productions, further establishing its reputation as a premier filming location.
Spain and Cinema: The Hollywood of Europe
Spain continues to attract global productions thanks to its generous tax incentives, which can cover up to 50% of production costs in the Canary Islands. These benefits not only make filming more affordable but also boost tourism and the local economy. With these advantages, Spain is solidifying its status as the “Hollywood of Europe.”
Want to live in Spain and experience life in one of cinema’s iconic locations? Contact our consultants to learn how to apply for your Spanish residence visa or citizenship!
Author:
Silvia Resende
