Photography is my profession, but TV series are one of my most notable hobbies. Lately I’ve noticed a new one placed theoretically in Valencia. Name’s Galavant, created by Dan Fogelman (Tangled) and features Joshua Sasse, Timothy Omundson, Mallory Jansen, Karen David and Vinnie Jones (yes, that ex-footballer gotten actor and go, he’s quite fun). It’s a comedy with many musical performances, with scores by the awesome Alan Menken. This gentleman has eight oscars, author of music for films like The Little Mermaid (The Little Mermaid), Aladdin, Pocahontas … Well, the lyrics -courtesy of Fogelman-, even though the music is by Menken, are more adult focused, with a few touches of black humor, going much further than Tangled lyrics went. Galavant has some great actors and interesting cameos, like Rutger Hauer (yes, the replicant from Blade Runner, remember that “All those moments will be lost like tears in the rain. Time to die” line?), Al Yankovic (maybe you know him by some parodies he has done, give it a try: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hEcjgJSqSRU).
I’m telling you all this because the series is interesting but the real relationship with Valencia is nonexistent. So there are some outdoor takes where you’re can see some towers, but they do not coincide with any of the currently existent in Valencia. So I put a couple of photos of the actual Valencia towers and a screenshot of Galavant just in case anyone wants to compare.
I have not found special resemblance between the towers appear and the actual look of Valencia at any time in its history. Valencia is in the mouth of the Turia River, but since the time of the Arab presence in Valencia irrigation ditches dwindled much the volume of river waters. Except in times when overflowed, it has never had the flow that appears in the TV series.
Galavant, Serranos and Quart towers
The appearance of Valencia in 1400 should be around this, according to an engraving of the time. Nothing to do with the way they appear in the series, despite little historical accuracy, is highly recommended.
The appearance of Valencia in 1400 should be around this, according to an engraving of the time. Nothing to do with the way they appear in the series, despite little historical accuracy, is highly recommended.
Finally, you can take a look at the trailer of the series. See if you like it as much as I do. By the way, it’s been renewed for a second season: http://www.ew.com/article/2015/05/07/galavant-scores-surprising-renewal-abc
I am Sergi Albir, professional photographer in Spain. You can contact me with an e-mail to sergi@archerphoto.eu , phoning me or sending me a message, Whatsapp or Telegram in office hours to +34 6444 5 9753. More pics in my gallery. Images for businesses, corporate pictures, headshots and all kind of photography you may need.