A life-sized model of Syrax, the dragon from HBO's House of the Dragon, has been unveiled at the Tower of London, captivating visitors with its intricate detail and imposing presence. The installation, part of a new exhibition titled 'The Dragon's Lair,' aims to merge the fantasy world of Westeros with the real historical setting of the Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Exhibition Details and Visitor Experience
The Syrax model, measuring approximately 20 meters in length, is positioned on the Tower's wharf, overlooking the River Thames. It features articulated wings and a head that can move, thanks to hidden mechanics, creating an immersive experience for onlookers. According to Historic Royal Palaces, the charity that manages the Tower, the exhibition runs from September 1 to October 31, 2024, and is included in the standard admission ticket.
Visitors can walk around the dragon, taking photos from multiple angles, and access interactive displays that explain the dragon's role in the Targaryen dynasty. The exhibition also includes props and costumes from the show, such as Rhaenyra Targaryen's riding gear.
Historical and Cultural Significance
John Barnes, a curator at Historic Royal Palaces, stated, "The Tower of London has a long history of housing exotic animals, from lions to polar bears, so adding a dragon feels like a natural progression. It's a fantastic way to engage younger audiences with history." The exhibition ties into the Tower's menagerie history, which dates back to the 13th century when kings received exotic animals as gifts.
The partnership with HBO and Warner Bros. Discovery underscores the cultural impact of House of the Dragon, which is set 200 years before the events of Game of Thrones. The show's second season aired in June 2024, boosting interest in Targaryen lore.
Visitor Numbers and Economic Impact
The Tower of London attracts over 3 million visitors annually. Early data from the first week of the exhibition shows a 15% increase in ticket sales compared to the same period last year, according to a spokesperson for Historic Royal Palaces. Local businesses, including cafes and souvenir shops near the Tower, have reported a surge in customers.
The installation has also generated significant social media buzz, with the hashtag #SyraxAtTheTower trending on X (formerly Twitter) in the UK within 24 hours of the unveiling. Many visitors have shared videos of the dragon's moving wings, amplifying the exhibition's reach.
Future Plans and Legacy
Historic Royal Palaces plans to rotate similar installations at other historic sites, depending on the success of this exhibition. A survey conducted among the first 1,000 visitors indicated that 85% rated the experience as 'excellent' or 'very good.' The charity hopes this will encourage repeat visits and attract a younger demographic.
The Syrax model will remain at the Tower until the end of October, after which it may tour other locations or be stored for future events. For now, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of dragons in both fiction and history.
