The blades wielded by the Game of Thrones characters have become synonymous with the show itself, and hardcore fans across the world pay a lot of money to get their hands on replicas of the iconic swords, which each have their own special characteristics and names, like Blackfyre, Dark Sister and Longclaw. But, what makes these weapons so extraordinary?

A Mythical, Magical Metal  

The secret behind the swords’ superiority is the material of which they were forged: Valyrian steel. This mythical alloy, manufactured in the ancient empire of the Valyrians, is noted to be exceptionally sharp and tremendously strong, yet lightweight, making it an ideal metal for a sword. Its rippled patterns make it distinctive from other metals, and because of these properties, the steel is quite scarce and very expensive. Yet what makes Valyrian steel swords most unique and powerful is the fact that they are forged with magic spells and dragonfire in a sword making process that was all but lost over the ages.

While the fictitious alloy was more than likely the result of imaginative thinking than the consultation of chemistry books, George R. R. Martin, author of the A Song of Ice and Fire novel series on which the show is based, drew inspiration from real-life ancient weaponry, more specifically Damascus steel, to dream up the material.

Real-life Inspiration

Similar to its imaginary predecessor, Damascus steel, which originated in South India before the Common Era, was primarily used to make long-bladed weapons which were reputed to be tough, shatter-resistant and able to be honed to a sharp, resilient edge.

Additionally, the blades possessed the distinctive rippled patterns which resembled flowing water. It is said that Islamic knights would look at these patterns before a battle to be reminded of the flowing waters of the rivers of paradise, and be reassured that should they fall, their place in paradise would be secured.

Of course, there were no fire-breathing dragons or wizardry involved in the forgery of these blades, and the metal’s properties weren’t as ideal as those of Valyrian steel. The material did give rise to a number of legends, however.

It was believed that a blade made of Damascus steel could effortlessly cut through a rifle barrel, or cut in half a silk scarf falling across the blade. Some even say that Damascus steel swords were the strongest blades used in the Crusades. Whether there is any truth to these legends or not, the swords were undoubtedly extraordinary for their time.

Also like Valyrian steel, the original method of production of Damascus steel was eventually lost, and the manufacturing of the patterned swords ceased around 1750.

Although Damascus steel blades may be long gone, these intricate swords have been reincarnated, albeit fictitiously, and can continue to be admired, thanks to the Game of Thrones series, which airs on Sundays at 9PM Eastern Standard Time on HBO.

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Here are POSCO’s top picks for you to visit.

1)      Eiffel Tower in Paris

 Image Source: flickr

How about a trip to the romantic city of lights to see the Eiffel Tower? At 324 meters, the Eiffel Tower was the tallest architectural structure in 1930 until the Chrysler building was completed. The full metal structure of the Eiffel Tower weighs about 8,000 tons and including non-metal materials, weighs 10,000 tons. While the Eiffel Tower today is emblematic of the ‘city of love’, this was not always the case. When it was first built, media was filled with criticism about the metal appearance that seemed to ruin the city. Famous author, Maupaussant famously said, “I eat lunch in the restaurant within the Eiffel Tower since it is the only place within the city where you don’t have to see the steel object.” Oh, how things have changed!

2)      Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco

Image source: flickr

If Paris has its Eiffel Tower, San Francisco in the U.S. has its Golden Gate Bridge, the longest bridge in the world until 1959.  The 2,879m long bridge was built in 1937 to connect San Francisco with Marine Country in the north and it takes 3 minutes by car and 1 hour if you walk! At the time, many doubted that a structure as long as 2,879m could be constructed while withstanding the wind, fog and fast waters. However, the impossible was possible and the Golden Gate Bridge is symbolic of San Francisco and the entire State today. The official architect for this bridge was Joseph Strauss and the base structure was created using iron, steel truss structure and steel cables. At the time of construction, the Navy requested that the bridge be built in such a way that ships could pass through below. Therefore a 66m high arch was created and to this day, there is no ship that cannot pass under.

Who would like to cross this bridge in this summer?

3)      Burj in Dubai

Image source: flickr

How about a trip to Dubai to see the world’s tallest man-made structure? A collection of all modern day innovations and tricks, the Burj in Dubai is truly a feast for the eyes. At 828m high with 162 floors, it is currently the world’s tallest skyscraper. In addition to its record height, the building itself was constructed beautifully. What is the secret behind this innovative, stunning architecture? The advanced architectural design was made possible due to the TMCP (thermo-mechanical control process) steel that has greater strength and durability, as well as, improved weldability. It is also efficient in that TMCP steels reduce construction time compared to concrete structures and also requires less manpower which helps reduce costs.

Who knew that all these world famous sights were made of steel? These places are definitely worth a trip during this summer or during your lifetime. Share your favorite architectural wonder with us!