Where is Hogwarts Filmed? Uncovering the Real-World Magic of the Harry Potter Movies
The Enchanting Truth Behind Where Hogwarts is Filmed
For countless fans, the question "Where is Hogwarts filmed?" sparks a sense of wonder, a yearning to step through the Great Hall doors and feel the magic of the wizarding world. I remember as a kid, after countless viewings of the early Harry Potter films, I was utterly convinced that Hogwarts was a real place, nestled somewhere in the misty Scottish Highlands. The sheer detail, the ancient stone, the sprawling grounds – it all felt so tangible. The search for its real-world counterpart became a personal quest, a magical treasure hunt that, as it turns out, leads to some of the most breathtaking locations in the United Kingdom. The truth is, Hogwarts isn't just one place; it's a brilliant tapestry woven from the architectural marvels and stunning landscapes of England and Scotland, brought together to create the iconic castle we all know and love.
A Glimpse into the Wizarding World's Real-World Foundations
The journey to discover where Hogwarts is filmed is a fascinating exploration of cinematic magic and historical grandeur. While no single castle perfectly embodies the entirety of Hogwarts, several key locations were instrumental in bringing J.K. Rowling's vision to life. The primary filming took place across various stunning settings, with a significant portion of the exterior shots and interior grandeur attributed to the majestic cathedrals and historic university buildings of England, and the dramatic landscapes of Scotland. These places weren't just backdrops; they were integral to shaping the atmospheric and timeless feel of the wizarding world.
The Majestic Cloisters: Christchurch College, Oxford
One of the most recognizable aspects of Hogwarts is its intricate cloisters, where students would rush to classes and important conversations often unfolded. For the early Harry Potter films, the hallowed cloisters of Christchurch College at Oxford University served as a principal filming location for these iconic scenes. Imagine walking through those very arches, where Daniel Radcliffe, as Harry Potter, and his fellow Gryffindors were filmed making their way to lessons. The sheer scale and gothic architecture of Christchurch's quadrangle and staircase are truly awe-inspiring. The Great Hall, in particular, was heavily influenced by the college's own magnificent hall. It's this sense of history and grandeur that lends itself so perfectly to the world of wizards and witches.
The Divinity School at Oxford, also part of Christchurch College, is another crucial filming site. Its stunning fan-vaulted ceiling, a masterpiece of medieval architecture, was used to create the illusion of Hogwarts' classrooms. This space exudes an almost ethereal quality, making it an ideal candidate for where magical lessons would take place. The sense of light filtering through stained-glass windows, the echoes of ancient footsteps – it all contributes to the immersive experience of being within the magical school.
My Own Experience: Visiting Oxford was like stepping back in time. Wandering through Christchurch College, I could almost hear the whispers of students past, both muggle and wizard. Standing in the cloisters, it was incredibly easy to visualize the scenes from the movies. The sheer scale of the architecture is what truly struck me; it’s easy to see why filmmakers chose this location. The Divinity School, with its breathtaking ceiling, felt like a space where anything could happen, a perfect incubator for magical learning.
The Grandeur of Durham Cathedral
While Christchurch provided much of the cloistered charm, the imposing exterior and certain interior spaces of Durham Cathedral in Northeast England were also pivotal in establishing the visual identity of Hogwarts. The cathedral's striking Norman architecture, with its robust towers and intricate stonework, provided the perfect template for the castle's imposing silhouette. Many exterior shots, particularly those depicting the castle's grand façade, were inspired by or directly filmed at Durham Cathedral. It’s this sense of ancient solidity and monumental presence that defines Hogwarts.
The cloisters of Durham Cathedral were also utilized for filming, often standing in for the same areas as those at Christchurch. The juxtaposition of these two magnificent cathedrals, each with its unique architectural nuances, helped to build the layered and complex visual of Hogwarts across the various films. The sheer weight of history within Durham Cathedral adds a profound sense of gravitas, a feeling that the castle has stood for centuries, witnessing countless magical events.
A Deeper Dive: The filmmakers specifically chose Durham Cathedral for its commanding presence and its ability to evoke a sense of ancient power. The North Doorway of the cathedral, for instance, served as a recognizable entrance in some of the films, adding to the illusion of a real, albeit magical, institution. The sheer scale of the cathedral's nave and choir also offered possibilities for replicating the vastness of Hogwarts' interior spaces.
The Architectural Inspiration of Alnwick Castle
Moving north, Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, England, played a more prominent role, particularly in the earlier films. This magnificent medieval fortress served as a key filming location for many of the exterior shots of Hogwarts Castle. Its impressive battlements, courtyards, and surrounding countryside provided the perfect backdrop for Quidditch matches and dramatic entrances. Who can forget Harry’s first flying lesson, where he spectacularly takes off on his broomstick, with Alnwick Castle looming majestically in the background?
The "Outer Bailey" of Alnwick Castle was a particularly busy filming site. This expansive courtyard area was used for various scenes, including the flying lessons and the arrival of students at Hogwarts. The castle’s imposing towers and curtain walls helped to solidify the image of Hogwarts as a formidable and ancient structure, deeply rooted in its surroundings. It’s this integration with the natural landscape that makes Hogwarts feel so believable.
Filmmaking Insights: Alnwick Castle's strategic location and its well-preserved medieval architecture made it an ideal choice for capturing the grandeur and defensive nature of Hogwarts. The producers were able to utilize the castle's existing features to create believable scenes, minimizing the need for extensive CGI in the early stages of filming. The sheer visual impact of Alnwick Castle is undeniable; it truly looks like a place where magic could happen.
The Scenic Beauty of Scotland: Loch Shiel and Glenfinnan Viaduct
Beyond the castles and colleges, the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland are intrinsically linked to the visual identity of the Harry Potter films, and by extension, Hogwarts. The Glenfinnan Viaduct, a magnificent railway bridge in the Scottish Highlands, became synonymous with the Hogwarts Express chugging its way to the magical school. The iconic image of the scarlet steam engine crossing this viaduct, with the stunning backdrop of Loch Shiel and the surrounding glens, is etched into the minds of fans worldwide.
The Jacobite Steam Train, which runs on the West Highland Line, is the actual train used to portray the Hogwarts Express. Riding this train, especially across the Glenfinnan Viaduct, is a pilgrimage for many Harry Potter enthusiasts. The dramatic scenery, the mist-shrouded mountains, the deep, dark waters of the lochs – it all contributes to the mystical and slightly foreboding atmosphere that is so characteristic of the wizarding world.
The Scottish Connection: The raw, untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands provided the perfect canvas for the more fantastical elements of the Harry Potter universe. The rugged terrain, the dramatic weather, and the sense of ancient history embedded in the landscape all helped to create the magical aura that surrounds Hogwarts. It’s not just about the buildings; it’s about the environment that cradles them.
Other Notable Influences and Filming Locations
The creation of Hogwarts was a collaborative effort, drawing inspiration and utilizing various locations to achieve the desired effect. While the aforementioned sites are perhaps the most prominent, other places also contributed to the visual tapestry of the films:
- Gloucester Cathedral: Similar to Durham and Christchurch, Gloucester Cathedral's stunning architecture, including its cloisters, was used in some of the early films. Its Gothic style provided another layer of authenticity to the castle's interior.
- Lacock Abbey: This former Augustinian priory in Wiltshire, England, offered its picturesque medieval cloisters and corridors for filming. Lacock Abbey's historical charm made it an ideal setting for various Hogwarts scenes, including classrooms and corridors.
- Goathland Station: The charming station in North Yorkshire, England, served as Hogsmeade Station in the early films. Its nostalgic, old-fashioned appearance perfectly captured the magical departure and arrival point of the Hogwarts Express.
- The Lake District: While not a specific filming location for Hogwarts itself, the stunning natural beauty of the Lake District in England undoubtedly influenced the overall aesthetic of the wizarding world, particularly its wild and enchanting landscapes.
The Magic of Composite Filming: Building Hogwarts
It's crucial to understand that Hogwarts is not a single, static location. The magic of filmmaking lies in its ability to create illusions, and the Hogwarts we see on screen is a meticulously crafted composite. The production team skillfully blended footage from various locations, combined with impressive set designs and CGI, to construct the colossal and ever-evolving castle that is Hogwarts. This approach allowed them to showcase different architectural styles and landscapes, contributing to the sense of depth and history that the school possesses.
Interior vs. Exterior: A Tale of Two Locations
One of the most fascinating aspects of where Hogwarts is filmed is the distinct separation between interior and exterior filming. For the sprawling, majestic exterior shots of the castle, locations like Alnwick Castle and the dramatic landscapes of Scotland were paramount. However, the interiors – the Great Hall, the common rooms, the classrooms – were largely brought to life on soundstages or within the hallowed halls of English cathedrals and university buildings.
Set Design and Studio Magic: Much of the interior of Hogwarts, including the Great Hall, was meticulously recreated on soundstages at Leavesden Studios (now Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter). This allowed the production team complete control over the look and feel of these crucial spaces. The Great Hall set, for instance, was designed to be incredibly detailed, complete with the floating candles and the enchanted ceiling. The extensive use of set design meant that filmmakers could precisely capture the atmosphere and scale required for the story.
Architectural Echoes: While soundstages provided the controlled environment for many interior scenes, the architectural grandeur of places like Christchurch College and Gloucester Cathedral served as profound inspiration and, in some cases, direct filming locations for specific interior shots. The vaulted ceilings of the Divinity School, the ancient stone corridors – these elements were seamlessly integrated into the overall visual narrative of Hogwarts.
The Role of CGI in Expanding Hogwarts
As the Harry Potter film series progressed, the reliance on Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI) increased significantly. CGI was instrumental in expanding the scale of Hogwarts, adding fantastical elements, and seamlessly integrating the various filming locations into a cohesive whole. For instance, the towering spires and extensive wings of Hogwarts that might not have been present in the real-world locations were often digitally added.
Creating the Imposing Silhouette: CGI was used to create the iconic, sprawling silhouette of Hogwarts against the sky, particularly in wider shots. This allowed filmmakers to present a castle that was far larger and more complex than any single real-world structure could provide. The moving staircases, the Room of Requirement, and other magical architectural features were also brought to life through digital artistry.
Enhancing the Atmosphere: Beyond the physical structure, CGI also played a role in enhancing the magical atmosphere. The enchanted ceiling of the Great Hall, the moving portraits, and the general sense of wonder were all augmented by digital effects, ensuring that the wizarding world felt truly alive and extraordinary.
Why These Locations Were Chosen: An Analysis
The selection of these specific filming locations was no accident. The filmmakers sought out places that could evoke a sense of history, grandeur, and a touch of mystery – qualities that are inherent to Hogwarts itself. Several factors likely contributed to these choices:
- Historical Significance: Ancient colleges, cathedrals, and castles inherently possess a gravitas and timelessness that is crucial for portraying a school that has stood for centuries. The weight of history imbues these locations with an authenticity that is difficult to replicate.
- Architectural Grandeur: The Gothic and Norman architectural styles found in many of these sites, with their soaring arches, intricate stonework, and imposing facades, naturally lend themselves to the visual representation of a magical castle.
- Atmospheric Qualities: The often dramatic landscapes of Scotland, the misty mornings, the rugged terrain, and the vast expanses of nature, create an atmosphere that is both beautiful and slightly wild, perfectly mirroring the enchanting and sometimes dangerous world of magic.
- Practical Considerations: While artistic vision is paramount, practicalities like access, space for filming crews, and the ability to manage large-scale productions also played a role. Many of these locations, being established institutions or tourist attractions, were accustomed to hosting visitors and had the infrastructure to accommodate film crews.
A Pilgrim's Guide: Visiting the Real-World Hogwarts
For many devoted fans, the dream of visiting Hogwarts extends to visiting the very places where the magic was captured on film. While you can't enroll in classes at Oxford or attend services at Durham Cathedral with a wand in hand, you can certainly immerse yourself in the atmosphere of these incredible locations. Here's a guide for those looking to embark on their own magical pilgrimage:
Experiencing Christchurch College, Oxford
How to Visit: Christchurch College is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can typically explore the grounds, the Great Hall (which served as inspiration for the Hogwarts Great Hall), the cloisters, and the Chapter House. It’s advisable to check the college's official website for opening times, ticket information, and any access restrictions, as it is still a functioning academic institution.
What to Look For: As you wander, imagine Harry, Ron, and Hermione hurrying through the cloisters. The stunning staircase leading up to the Great Hall is particularly memorable. While the Great Hall itself wasn't directly used for interior filming (a set was built), its grandeur is undeniable and heavily influenced the film's depiction.
Discovering Durham Cathedral
How to Visit: Durham Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is open to visitors throughout the year. Admission is free, although donations are welcome. Guided tours are available, offering deeper insights into its history and architecture.
What to Look For: Walk through the cloisters and imagine the scenes filmed here. The sheer scale and ancient feel of the cathedral are palpable. Look for the specific areas used in filming, such as the North Doorway, which has a distinctive look.
Exploring Alnwick Castle
How to Visit: Alnwick Castle is open to the public seasonally, typically from spring to autumn. Tickets are required for entry, and it's wise to book in advance, especially during peak season. The castle offers various interactive experiences and tours related to the Harry Potter films.
What to Look For: The Outer Bailey is a must-see. This is where Harry had his first flying lesson. You can even participate in broomstick training sessions on the very grounds where the magic happened! The castle's formidable exterior is incredibly striking.
Journeying on the Hogwarts Express: Glenfinnan Viaduct and the Jacobite Steam Train
How to Visit: The Jacobite Steam Train operates seasonally, usually from April to October, on the West Highland Line between Fort William and Mallaig. Booking tickets well in advance is absolutely essential, as this is an extremely popular experience. The Glenfinnan Viaduct can also be viewed from various vantage points near the Glenfinnan Monument.
What to Look For: The iconic train journey across the Glenfinnan Viaduct is the highlight. The surrounding Scottish Highlands offer breathtaking scenery that is as magical as any spell. If you can’t get a ticket for the train, consider visiting the Glenfinnan Viaduct viewpoint to see the train pass by.
Lacock Abbey and Goathland Station: A Taste of More
How to Visit Lacock Abbey: Lacock Abbey is managed by the National Trust and is open to the public. It’s located in the picturesque village of Lacock, which itself feels like a step back in time. Check the National Trust website for opening times and admission fees.
What to Look For: Explore the abbey's cloisters, which were used to film corridors and classrooms. The surrounding village of Lacock also features prominently in some Harry Potter scenes.
How to Visit Goathland Station: Goathland Station is still an operational railway station on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. You can visit the station itself, and even take a ride on the heritage steam trains that run on this line, experiencing a taste of the Hogwarts Express journey.
What to Look For: Stand on the platform and imagine the bustling scene of students departing for their holidays. The station's vintage charm is perfectly preserved.
Frequently Asked Questions About Where Hogwarts is Filmed
Q1: Is Hogwarts a real castle that exists in one place?
Answer: No, Hogwarts is not a single, real castle that exists in one physical location. The Hogwarts we see in the Harry Potter films is a masterful creation, a composite of various architectural inspirations and filming locations. Filmmakers used a combination of stunning real-world castles, cathedrals, and university buildings, alongside meticulously designed studio sets and advanced CGI, to bring the iconic school to life. This approach allowed them to construct a castle that was grander and more complex than any single existing structure could provide, ensuring it met the magical and expansive vision presented in J.K. Rowling's books.
The production team meticulously selected locations for their historical grandeur, architectural beauty, and atmospheric qualities. For instance, Christchurch College in Oxford provided the inspirational setting for Hogwarts' cloisters and staircase, while Alnwick Castle in Northumberland was used for many exterior shots, including memorable scenes of flying lessons. Durham Cathedral and Gloucester Cathedral also contributed their magnificent architecture to the film's visual language. However, much of the intricate interior work, like the Great Hall, was recreated on soundstages at Leavesden Studios to allow for precise control over the set design and scale.
Furthermore, the breathtaking landscapes of Scotland, particularly the Glenfinnan Viaduct, became synonymous with the Hogwarts Express's journey, adding another layer of geographical authenticity to the wizarding world. The overall effect is a seamless blend of real-world beauty and cinematic artistry, creating a Hogwarts that feels both tangible and undeniably magical, a feat achieved through the intelligent combination of diverse filming sites and extensive post-production work.
Q2: What are the main real-world locations used to film Hogwarts?
Answer: The principal filming locations that contributed to the creation of Hogwarts Castle are a blend of historical architectural marvels. One of the most significant influences is Christchurch College, Oxford, particularly its cloisters and staircase, which served as inspiration and filming sites for Hogwarts' interior corridors and access points. The Divinity School at Oxford, with its stunning vaulted ceiling, was also utilized for classroom scenes.
Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, England, played a crucial role in many exterior shots of Hogwarts in the early films, including iconic scenes like Harry's first flying lesson. Its impressive medieval architecture provided the perfect backdrop for the castle's formidable appearance. Durham Cathedral, a magnificent Norman cathedral in Northeast England, also contributed to the exterior shots and cloisters of Hogwarts.
In addition to these, other locations like Gloucester Cathedral and Lacock Abbey, with their own beautiful cloisters and historical architecture, were used for various interior scenes and corridors in the earlier films. For the magical journey to Hogwarts, the **Glenfinnan Viaduct** in Scotland, traversed by the Jacobite Steam Train (portraying the Hogwarts Express), became an indelible part of the Hogwarts experience.
It's important to reiterate that Hogwarts is not one singular place. The final on-screen castle is a sophisticated amalgamation of these real-world sites, combined with detailed studio sets constructed at Leavesden Studios and extensive use of CGI to achieve the desired scale and magical elements.
Q3: How did filmmakers create the massive scale of Hogwarts?
Answer: The immense scale of Hogwarts as depicted in the films was achieved through a multi-faceted approach that combined practical filming techniques with advanced digital technology. The first crucial element was the selection of real-world locations that already possessed significant architectural grandeur. Places like Durham Cathedral and Alnwick Castle provided imposing structures that gave the impression of a vast and ancient castle.
Beyond these existing structures, filmmakers meticulously designed and built large-scale sets for key interior locations, most notably the Great Hall at Leavesden Studios. This purpose-built set allowed for the accurate portrayal of the hall's immense size, with its soaring ceiling and long tables. To further enhance the sense of scale, forced perspective techniques were often employed in filming. This involves strategically placing objects and actors to create the illusion of greater depth and distance.
The most significant contribution to Hogwarts' colossal size, however, came from the extensive use of Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI). As the film series progressed, CGI became indispensable. Digital artists were able to digitally extend the existing structures filmed at real-world locations, adding countless towers, spires, and battlements to create the iconic, sprawling silhouette of Hogwarts that we know from the films. They also digitally recreated entire sections of the castle and integrated the various filmed elements into a single, cohesive, and immense magical structure. This combination of real-world locations, detailed sets, practical effects, and cutting-edge CGI allowed filmmakers to construct a Hogwarts that truly felt like a world unto itself.
Q4: Can I visit the real places where Hogwarts was filmed?
Answer: Yes, absolutely! A significant part of the magic for many fans is the ability to visit the real-world locations that served as the backdrop for Hogwarts and the wizarding world. Many of these sites are accessible to the public, offering a unique opportunity to step into the footsteps of the characters.
Oxford University Colleges: Christchurch College is a prime destination. Visitors can explore its magnificent Great Hall (an inspiration for the Hogwarts Great Hall), its cloisters, and other beautiful areas. It’s advisable to check their official website for visiting hours and ticket information, as it remains an active academic institution. Similarly, other Oxford colleges like Bodleian Library (which includes the Divinity School) can also be visited, offering glimpses into the ancient academic atmosphere that inspired Hogwarts.
Castles and Cathedrals: Alnwick Castle in Northumberland is open seasonally and offers a truly immersive experience, even providing broomstick training sessions in the very courtyard where Harry learned to fly. Durham Cathedral and Gloucester Cathedral are both magnificent historical sites, freely accessible to visitors (though donations are welcomed), allowing you to wander their awe-inspiring cloisters and naves.
The Hogwarts Express Journey: For an unforgettable experience, you can ride the Jacobite Steam Train, which portrays the Hogwarts Express, across the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland. This is an incredibly popular attraction, so booking tickets months in advance is essential. The surrounding Scottish Highlands are spectacularly beautiful and add to the magical journey.
Other Locations: Lacock Abbey in Wiltshire, managed by the National Trust, offers its own beautiful cloisters and historical charm. Goathland Station in North Yorkshire, which served as Hogsmeade Station, is still a functioning heritage railway station and a delightful place to visit.
When planning your visit, it's always best to check the official websites of these locations for the most up-to-date information on opening times, booking requirements, and any specific visitor guidelines. Embarking on such a pilgrimage can be an incredibly rewarding experience for any Harry Potter enthusiast.
Q5: Which film featured the most real-world locations for Hogwarts?
Answer: The early films in the Harry Potter series, particularly Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (also known as Philosopher's Stone) and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, tended to feature a more extensive use of real-world locations for the exterior and some interior shots of Hogwarts. This was primarily because the filmmakers were establishing the visual identity of the magical school and wanted to ground it in tangible, historical architecture to create a sense of realism and wonder.
For example, Alnwick Castle was a primary filming location for many of the exterior shots and courtyard scenes in these initial movies. Christchurch College and Gloucester Cathedral were heavily utilized for their cloisters and other interior architectural features that were vital in portraying the corridors and classrooms of Hogwarts. The Glenfinnan Viaduct and the surrounding Scottish landscapes were also central to establishing the iconic journey of the Hogwarts Express.
As the series progressed, the scale of Hogwarts, especially its more fantastical elements and the sheer size of the castle, became increasingly reliant on studio sets and Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI). This shift was necessary to depict the ever-evolving and more elaborate aspects of the magical school as described in the later books. While real-world locations continued to serve as inspiration and were sometimes used for specific shots, the massive and complex depiction of Hogwarts in films like Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows was significantly more dependent on digital artistry and extensive set construction.
Q6: Was the Great Hall of Hogwarts filmed in a real Great Hall?
Answer: While the grandeur of real Great Halls, particularly the one at Christchurch College, Oxford, served as a significant inspiration for the Hogwarts Great Hall, the actual filming of the interior took place on a meticulously constructed set. The iconic Great Hall of Hogwarts, with its enchanted ceiling displaying the sky, its long house tables, and its impressive decorative elements, was primarily recreated on a soundstage at Leavesden Studios (now the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London).
The decision to build a dedicated set for the Great Hall was driven by the need for precise control over the set's dimensions, lighting, and the ability to incorporate magical effects. The filmmakers wanted to create a space that was both awe-inspiringly large and adaptable for various scenes throughout the series. This allowed for the placement of numerous extras, the intricate lighting required for different moods, and the seamless integration of special effects like the floating candles and the moving house banners.
However, the architectural style and the sheer historical weight of real Great Halls, like the one at Christchurch College, were undoubtedly influential in the design process. The filmmakers aimed to capture that same sense of ancient tradition, communal gathering, and imposing presence that these historical spaces evoke. So, while you can visit the inspiring real-world locations, the specific Great Hall you see in the films was a masterpiece of set design and studio magic.
The Enduring Legacy of Hogwarts Filming Locations
The question "Where is Hogwarts filmed?" transcends a simple geographical query; it's an invitation to explore the real-world foundations of a beloved fantasy. The filmmakers' choice of locations – the ancient universities, the majestic castles, the dramatic landscapes – was instrumental in crafting the indelible image of Hogwarts. These places, steeped in history and architectural splendor, provided the perfect canvas upon which the magic of the wizarding world could be painted.
Each location, from the cloisters of Oxford to the viaducts of Scotland, contributes a unique thread to the rich tapestry that is Hogwarts. They imbue the fictional school with a sense of tangible reality, making it feel like a place that could, in some magical way, exist. For fans, visiting these sites offers a profound connection to the stories they love, a chance to walk the same grounds and stand in the same halls that inspired the creation of this iconic wizarding institution. The legacy of Hogwarts is, in many ways, intertwined with the enduring beauty and historical significance of these real-world treasures.
The ongoing popularity of the Harry Potter films and the continued fascination with where Hogwarts is filmed demonstrate the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of magic. These locations are more than just movie sets; they are gateways to imagination, reminding us that even in the most fantastical tales, there can be a grounding in the real world, a connection to places that inspire wonder and awe. The magic of Hogwarts, it seems, is as much about the artistry of filmmaking and the beauty of our world as it is about spells and potions.