The filming of ’30 Coins’ turned Spanish towns into real-life sets for a mystical thriller, where every stone and street became part of a tense story. The decision to use real locations not only enhanced the atmosphere but also drew attention to lesser-known corners of the country. After the series was released, tourist traffic to Pedraza and other places increased significantly, and locals still discuss how their lives changed after the film crew’s visit.
Pedraza: The Heart of Mystery
The main scene of the first part unfolded in Pedraza—a medieval town where time seems to have stood still. Narrow streets, massive walls, and silence create a sense of isolation, perfectly suiting the twists of religious secrets and supernatural events. The film crew didn’t restrict themselves to just facades: inner courtyards, ancient churches, and even hidden corners rarely visited by tourists made it into the frame. Locals recall how, for several months, the town turned into a film set as their daily routines gave way to mysterious scenery and night shoots.
Pedraza didn’t just serve as a backdrop—it became a full-fledged character, shaping the mood and the course of events. The square, the gates, the castle, and the church—all these landmarks came to life anew, now associated with the most gripping scenes of the series. For many viewers, the town’s atmosphere became one of the main strengths of ’30 Coins.’
Other Locations
However, Pedraza is just the tip of the iceberg. To create large-scale scenes and intricate interiors, the team traveled to castles and palaces across Spain. The impressive Castillo de Guadamur in Toledo provided its halls for filming when Pedraza was unsuitable for technical reasons. Meanwhile, Castillo de Calatrava la Nueva in Ciudad Real served not only as a church, but also ‘portrayed’ the Syrian city of Aleppo, giving the series an international scope.
The Aldeadávila Dam on the border with Portugal was equally striking. Its massive concrete structures and harsh landscapes set the stage for the most intense moments. The picture was completed by the historic libraries of Madrid and Salamanca, as well as the luxurious Palacio del Marqués de Santa Cruz. Every location was chosen for a reason—its architecture and atmosphere heightened the sense of danger and mystery.
Second wave: new horizons
In the second season, the creators decided to broaden their horizons. This time, the spotlight shifted to Tenerife, specifically the city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna. Its historic squares and majestic cathedral became the setting for new mystical events. Filming also took place beyond Spain: Rome, Jerusalem, Paris, and New York added a global scale to the series, but it was the Spanish locations that viewers remembered as the most atmospheric.
Expanding the geography required enormous expenses and complex logistics. The filming crew faced bureaucratic challenges, unexpected weather, and the need to quickly adapt to new conditions. Nevertheless, the result exceeded expectations: the visuals of the second season became even more impressive, and the scenes—richer and more dynamic.
Why the project was cancelled
Despite its success and enthusiastic reviews, the series was not renewed. The reason was simple: budget constraints. Complex sets, international travel, a star-studded cast, and technical innovations made the project too expensive for the platform, especially against the backdrop of spending cuts. The second season could not justify the investment in terms of audience interest, and management decided not to proceed with a third installment.
This came as a real blow to fans. Many are still discussing what could have happened if the show had been given a chance to finish the story. Yet, even as it stands, “30 Monedas” left a significant mark on Spanish culture and became an example of how bold choices can change the perception of a genre.
Pedraza today
After the series aired, Pedraza became a magnet for tourists and fans of the mysterious. The town actively capitalizes on its newfound fame: guided tours are held at filming locations, and local cafes and hotels offer themed dishes and souvenirs. Life flows at a measured pace here, but now it carries a special air of mystery.
Many come not only for the architecture, but also to experience the atmosphere familiar from the series. In the evenings, the streets fill with whispers and anticipation of a miracle, while locals are eager to share stories about how their town became part of a major cinematic adventure.
Pedraza is not just a set piece, but a living entity that never ceases to amaze and inspire. It’s easy to lose track of time here and feel like the hero of a mystical thriller, where a new secret may be hiding around every corner.
Álex de la Iglesia is one of the most striking and controversial directors in modern Spain. His works always spark strong emotions and heated debates, and his style is unmistakable from the very first shots. In “30 monedas,” he blended his passion for the mystical, a love of unusual locations, and an ability to work with actors of all levels. Thanks to his vision, the series became not just another project, but a true cultural phenomenon that continues to influence the perception of the genre in Spain and beyond.
