Game of Thrones to use Andalusia's Moorish fortresses as season five set

For thousands of years, its lands played host to invasions, conquests and feuds. Now the southern Spanish region of Andalusia is having a return of sorts to its history, as it prepares for the filming of next season's Game of Thrones.

Confirming weeks of speculation, HBO said that season five of its blockbuster fantasy series would be partially shot in the province of Seville, with filming to begin later this year.

Dotted with imposing Moorish fortresses and majestic gardens, Andalusia is an obvious choice. While exact shoot locations have yet to be confirmed, Spanish media reported that the Alcázar of Seville, with its courtyard, reflecting pool and sunken gardens, would be one of several sites that would appear.