BITS ‘N’ PIECES

Narrated by Anas bin Malik (R.A)

Allah ‘s Apostle (S.A.W) said, “Whoever loves that he be granted more wealth and that his lease of life be prolonged then he should keep good relations with his kith and kin.”

Sahih Bukhari, Volume 8, Book 73, Number 15

DID YOU KNOW?

Multiple castles were used to film different parts of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the Harry Potter series.

The iconic castle used to depict Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the Harry Potter films is primarily Alnwick Castle, located in Northumberland, England. With its medieval architecture and dramatic scenery, Alnwick Castle was a perfect stand-in for the magical Hogwarts. The castle’s history dates back to the Norman period, having been built in 1096, and it remains one of the largest inhabited castles in England, serving as the residence of the Duke of Northumberland.

Alnwick Castle first appeared in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001) and was used again in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002). Fans may remember scenes like Harry’s first flying lesson on a broomstick with Madam Hooch and the Quidditch training sequences that took place in the castle’s courtyards and lawns. The combination of its imposing towers, expansive grounds, and authentic medieval look made it a believable and enchanting backdrop for many outdoor scenes.

Various other locations, including Durham Cathedral and Gloucester Cathedral, were used to create different parts of the school. Durham Cathedral’s cloisters were used to depict some of the internal corridors of Hogwarts, while Gloucester Cathedral was used for certain iconic hallway scenes, such as the one with the enchanted writing on the wall in Chamber of Secrets.

Alnwick Castle’s role in the Harry Potter series has made it a popular tourist destination, drawing fans from around the world. Visitors can take guided tours, explore the parts of the castle featured in the films, and even participate in broomstick flying lessons, making it a magical experience for Potterheads. In addition to Harry Potter, Alnwick Castle has been used in other films and television series, adding to its significance in British cinematic history.

Other locations, though not castles, also played a role in depicting Hogwarts. For example, the Lacock Abbey in Wiltshire was used for various interior scenes, and the Christ Church College at Oxford University provided settings like the Hogwarts Great Hall (though it was mostly recreated on a set for filming).

While these castles provided the exterior and some interior shots, most of the elaborate interiors of Hogwarts, such as the Great Hall, were filmed on sets built at Leavesden Studios. These locations collectively helped create the rich and magical world of Hogwarts in the films.