Queen Mary Elementary School, 230, West Keith Road, Central Lonsdale, Lower Lonsdale, North Vancouver, Metro Vancouver Regional District, British Columbia, V7M, Canada
Straße zum Mittelpunkt Deutschlands, Oberdorla, Vogtei, Unstrut-Hainich-Kreis, Thüringen, 99986, Deutschland
The beloved 1980s fantasy split its world in two: the everyday scenes of the boy Bastian used Vancouver, while the magical land of Fantasia – the Swamps of Sadness, Atreyu’s quest – was built at a Munich film studio and in the deserts of southern Spain.
Where was The NeverEnding Story filmed?
The NeverEnding Story was filmed at Bavaria Film Studios in Munich, in Vancouver, and in the deserts of Spain.
Every NeverEnding Story location, explained
1
Fantasia – Bavaria Film Studios
The magical land of Fantasia and its creatures were built at the Bavaria Film Studios in Munich, Germany.
2
Bastian’s world – Vancouver
Bastian’s real-world scenes, including the chase and his school, used Vancouver – Gastown and South Surrey.
3
The Swamps of Sadness – Spain
Atreyu’s journey and the desert dunes used the arid landscapes of Almeria and Huelva in southern Spain.
4
The studio spectacle
Much of the film’s ambitious fantasy was achieved with elaborate sets and models in Munich.
Planning a visit
Vancouver‘s historic Gastown grounds Bastian’s world, while the Bavaria Film Studios in Munich run tours that include NeverEnding Story sets.
NeverEnding Story Fun Facts
1
Fantasia was built in Munich The magical land was constructed at the Bavaria Film Studios in Germany.
2
Bastian's world is Vancouver The real-world scenes used Vancouver, including Gastown.
3
Spain's deserts as Fantasia Atreyu’s desert journey used the arid landscapes of southern Spain.
4
Falkor the luck dragon The huge Falkor puppet became one of the film’s most beloved creations.
5
Based on a German novel It adapts Michael Ende’s novel Die unendliche Geschichte.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Fantasia built?
At the Bavaria Film Studios in Munich, Germany.
Where were Bastian's real-world scenes filmed?
In Vancouver, Canada, including Gastown.
Can you visit the locations?
Yes – the Bavaria Film Studios run tours, and Vancouver’s Gastown is accessible.
Is it based on a book?
Yes – Michael Ende’s novel.
What is Falkor?
The luck dragon, brought to life as a huge puppet at the Munich studios.
