Westeros

Westeros is a fictional continent and the primary setting of George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series and its television adaptation. It lies to the west of the continent Essos, separated by the Narrow Sea. The realm is dominated by a feudal monarchy and is traditionally divided into the Seven Kingdoms, united under the Iron Throne, which is located in King’s Landing when the crown is seated there.

Geographically, Westeros comprises diverse regions, including the North, the Iron Islands, the Westerlands, the Reach, the Stormlands, the Riverlands, the Vale, Dorne, and the Crownlands. The Wall stands in the far north, guarding against northern threats, while Dragonstone and other coastal sites anchor the realm’s eastern and southern shores. The climate varies from cold northern winters to warmer southern lands, with seasons that can be long and unpredictable.

Historically, Westeros was settled by the First Men and later repopulated by the Andals. The Targaryen dynasty united the realm after a conquest, and the Iron Throne became the central symbol of authority. Political power is distributed among major noble houses that owe allegiance to the crown, with a royal court, the Small Council, and regional lords shaping governance. The Faith of the Seven is the dominant religion in most regions, complemented by other beliefs in certain areas. Maesters, healers, and soldiers form important institutions within the realm.

Economically, the realm is diverse: agriculture dominates the Reach and Riverlands, mining in the Westerlands, fishing in the Iron Islands, and extensive trade along coastal cities. Westeros is renowned for its political intrigue, dynastic conflicts, and evolving alliances, which drive much of the narrative across both the books and the TV series.