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You Won’t Believe the Size of These 15 Epic Dragons from Game of Thrones Ranked!

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In George R.R. Martin’s epic series, “A Song of Ice and Fire,” dragons hold a significant position. As they spearhead the most dragon-involved conflict ever seen in Westeros, it seems fitting to reminisce about the 10 biggest dragons that have graced the Known World. Dragons forge profound connections with their riders, offering readers an intimate glimpse into the characters’ lives. Yet, typical of George R.R. Martin and the “Game of Thrones” world, these relationships often bring intense sorrow.

As a dedicated movie critic, I cannot help but marvel at the enduring allure of dragons, whether they soar or plummet, their tales continue to captivate us. The rich tapestry of these mythical creatures, as revealed in George R.R. Martin’s epic A Song of Ice and Fire novels, along with supplementary works like The World of Ice & Fire and Fire & Blood, offers a wealth of knowledge about these majestic beasts and the passionate riders who shared their fate. Indeed, it is this tragic connection that ensures their legends shall endure for generations to come.

Dragonriders: Rhaenyra Targaryen

In the series “House of the Dragon,” Syrax plays a vital role as Rhaenyra Targaryen’s dragon companion. At just seven years old, Rhaenyra, who later becomes queen, first bonded with Syrax – their connection formed around the same year, 97 AC. Distinguished by her striking yellow scales and graceful build, Syrax is easily recognized among dragons.

In contrast to some of the larger dragons in “Game of Thrones,” Syrax isn’t one of them. However, she shares characteristics with Rhaenyra, who may appear harmless initially, but possesses a courageous spirit and a strong desire for rule. Unlike other dragons in “House of the Dragon,” Syrax doesn’t fly as frequently. This is because Rhaenyra can’t afford to be vulnerable and must concentrate on strategic concerns. As a result, while Syrax demonstrates intelligence, she lacks extensive battle experience.

Dragonriders: Daenerys Targaryen

As a devoted fan, I can confidently say that among all dragons in the Game of Thrones universe, none captivate me more than Drogon. Ever since his birth in the very first season, viewers have been privileged to witness his growth and evolution. Notably, Drogon was the mightiest and largest dragon to emerge from Daenerys’ trio of eggs. This fearsome creature with his imposing black scales and colossal stature has led many to speculate that he could be a reborn form of Balerion the Black Dread, the most massive dragon to have soared through the skies of Westeros in history.

In contrast, when viewers catch their final glimpse of Drogon, he’s far from matching Balerion’s immense size. The dragons conjured by George R.R. Martin continue growing throughout their lives. By the series finale, it’s revealed that Drogon is approximately seven years old, and his size is already comparable to what we see in House of the Dragon. As Drogon is the last surviving dragon in Westeros and has a lifespan similar to Balerion, there’s a strong possibility that he might eventually surpass his ancestor in size.

Dragonriders: Aenys I Targaryen, Aegon Targaryen

In the annals of Game of Thrones lore, Quicksilver is a pivotal dragon, emerging shortly after the Targaryen Conquest. Regrettably, this dragon won’t make an appearance in House of the Dragon as it perished in 43 AC. Before forming a bond with his son, Prince Aegon Targaryen, Quicksilver was the beloved pet of King Aenys I Targaryen.

In the world of “Game of Thrones,” Quicksilver wasn’t extensively portrayed with detailed silver scales, but her name suggests this. Despite being just a quarter the size of Balerion, Quicksilver was still a formidable, imposing dragon. However, in a confrontation against Balerion, Quicksilver was clearly outmatched. The battle took place beneath the Gods Eye, and it ended tragically for Quicksilver and Prince Aegon when Black Dread’s black flames consumed the smaller dragon before striking her wings, causing their fatal fall.

No Dragonrider

One of the rare, free-roaming dragons in Westeros is known as Grey Ghost. This name comes from his unique grey-white scales that appear like a ghostly fog by the seashore. Frequently, he behaves much like a colossal spirit, seemingly appearing out of nowhere over the water to hunt.

In the world of “Game of Thrones,” Grey Ghost is the dragon who keeps mostly to himself, exhibiting a quiet and reclusive nature. The absence of Grey Ghost in “House of the Dragon” implies that the creators intend to stay true to the original storyline, allowing Grey Ghost to continue his solitary existence without accepting a rider. Remarkably tall among the mid-sized dragons in Westeros, Grey Ghost stands out as one of the top ten largest dragons during the “Dance of the Dragons.

Dragonriders: Aegon II Targaryen

In the Battle at Rook’s Rest depicted in ‘House of the Dragon’, while Meleys and Rhaenys plummet to their demise, the outcome of Sunfyre, Aegon II Targaryen’s dragon, is unclear. Known as one of the most stunning dragons in Westeros, Sunfyre’s shimmering golden scales are legendary, reflecting the grandeur expected of a king, despite the ongoing contention over his claim to the Iron Throne.

Regrettably, Sunfyre suffers the consequences of Aegon’s hasty actions in “House of the Dragon” Season 2. The king, acting without caution, engages in combat against Princess Rhaenys’ seasoned dragon, Meleys. Despite his efforts, Sunfyre can only prevail with the aid of Aemond’s Vhagar. However, the younger dragon is no match for the two more experienced dragons and loses a wing in the battle, leaving viewers uncertain about his ultimate fate.

Dragonriders: Alyssa Targaryen, Rhaenys Targaryen

In the fourth episode of Season 2 titled “The Red Dragon and the Gold” in the popular series House of the Dragon, viewers experienced a significant dragon-related sorrow – the first major one in the show’s second season. This unfortunate event was the demise of the 10th largest dragon from A Song of Ice and Fire, a loss deeply felt as it claimed the life of Princess Rhaenys alongside her dragon Meleys. This poignant moment stands out as one of the saddest scenes in the series, and arguably in the book lore up to that point. Crucially, this marked another casualty of war among the dragons.

During the Dance of the Dragons, she had a long lifespan, accompanied by two exceptionally dedicated dragon riders. Her initial dragon rider was Alyssa Targaryen, who sadly passed away after childbirth complications, followed by Rhaenys Targaryen, who perished alongside her magnificent dragon in the Battle of Rook’s Rest. Meleys, once known for her swiftness among dragons during her youth, surpassing both Caraxes and Vhagar, eventually grew lethargic in her later years. However, she continued to embody the essence of a powerful force until her demise at the Battle of Rook’s Rest, where she upheld her reputation as a steadfast companion and an intimidating figure on the battlefield.

Dragonriders: Aemon Targaryen, Daemon Targaryen

Caraxes, who predates 72 After Conquest, may not have been the biggest dragon ever known, but he certainly stands out as one of the most distinctive and formidable dragons in Westeros’ history. Prior to his bonding with Prince Aemon Targaryen, Caraxes was often seen feasting on goats. Tragically, during this time, Prince Aemon sustained a fatal iron bolt wound while Caraxes was occupied. In the year 105 After Conquest, as portrayed by Matt Smith in ‘House of the Dragon’, Caraxes formed a bond with his uncle’s dragon, significantly increasing its power and danger.

At present, Caraxes dwells within Harrenhal alongside Daemon in the series, and he remains an intimidating specter to anyone who isn’t Daemon or his supporters. Among the annals of A Song of Ice and Fire, Caraxes stands as one of the more historically significant dragons. Not only is his rider a prominent figure in Westeros’s history, but Caraxes also makes a substantial impact on that narrative, playing a pivotal role in Daemon’s esteemed position within recorded chronicles.

Dragonriders: Rhaena Targaryen, Helaena Targaryen

Born during the rule of Aegon I Targaryen, the mighty dragon known as Dreamfyre is among the oldest dragons in House of the Dragon. After forging a connection with nine-year-old Princess Rhaena Targaryen, Dreamfyre was not given to her due to reasons that her husband, Aegon (son of King Aenys I Targaryen and brother to Rhaena), had yet to bond with his own dragon. Their father wanted to avoid the appearance of Aegon appearing weak. This decision proved disadvantageous for both Rhaena and Dreamfyre herself.

Following Aenys’s demise and Maegor the Cruel’s ascension to the throne, Rhaena and Aegon secretly entered King’s Landing. It was there that Rhaena obtained Dreamfyre, and Aegon found his own dragon, Quicksilver. After Rhaena’s passing, Dreamfyre resided in the Dragonpit within King’s Landing, where Halaena Targaryen – Viserys I Targaryen’s daughter – eventually formed a connection with her. Although Halaena has occasionally ridden Dreamfyre, she cherishes her grand dragon deeply and seldom desires to take flight on her.

Dragonrider: Alysanne Targaryen, Ulf White

Concerning Rhaena Targaryen, rider of Dreamfyre, it was Silverwing – a dragon born from an egg placed in her sister Alysanne’s crib – that showed loyalty, assisting Alysanne in numerous disputes throughout her life. Interestingly, Silverwing exhibited apprehension towards The Wall, the residence of the Night’s Watch. She would hiss at the chilly air emanating from it and refused to venture north or even approach it on three separate occasions when Alysanne tried. Remarkably, after Alysanne’s demise, Silverwing remained at Dragonstone for nearly 30 years.

Silverwing lived at Dragonmont on Dragonstone until the Red Sowing occurred, during which Rhaenyra gave Targaryen bastards an opportunity to attempt taming a dragon and join her cause. However, Ulf White, a boisterous tale-spinner who alleges to be half-brother to King Viserys I and Prince Daemon Targaryen, doesn’t exactly claim Silverwing as his; rather, he stumbles upon the dragon. Without much delay, Silverwing selects him as her rider.

Dragonrider: Nettles

At the onset of the Dance of the Dragons, Sheepstealer is one of the three untamed dragons residing on Dragonstone. The inhabitants of Driftmark bestowed this name upon him due to his relentless appetite for sheep. In the tales of A Song of Ice and Fire, it’s said that a bastard girl named Nettles utilized Sheepstealer’s hunger to domesticate him.

In House of the Dragon, the storyline involving Sheepstealer has undergone significant alterations as Needles, who originally pursued Sheepstealer, will not be present in the series. Instead, it’s Rhaena Targaryen who chases after Sheepstealer within the Vale of Arryn. This dragon and its rider have had a profound impact on the Dance of the Dragons, making their tale one of the most distinctive dragon-rider bonds in the annals of A Song of Ice and Fire. As such, it’s expected that Rhaena will significantly influence the upcoming conflict; the last image we get of her is engaging directly with a wild, untamed dragon.

Dragonrider: Jaehaerys the Conciliator, Hugh Hammer

Fans of “House of the Dragon” will recall that King Viserys I Targaryen’s father is none other than Jaehaerys the Wise. In Season 2, viewers will be introduced to Jaehaerys’ dragon, Vermithor. Since Jaehaerys was known for his peaceful reign, Vermithor isn’t remembered for many significant battles, but he did contribute flames to King Aenys I Targaryen’s funeral pyre.

During the events of the Dance of the Dragons, while Jaehaerys is deceased, Vermithor continues to live. Though he’s nearly a century old, Vermithor remains a formidable danger in the conflict. In Season 2, Episode 7, “The Red Sowing”, he single-handedly slays numerous dragonriders. It isn’t until Hugh Hammer that Vermithor meets his end.

No Dragonrider

Besides Sheepstealer, The Cannibal is a dragon dwelling on Dragonstone that has yet to be claimed and is infamous for consuming the leftovers of deceased dragons, newly hatched dragons, and dragon eggs. Some local residents of Dragonstone suspect that this dragon existed even before the Targaryens set foot on Dragonstone. This particular dragon appeared to take more delight in harming his own kind than in causing harm to the people of Westeros.

To put it simply, The Cannibal dragon is best left untouched, and anyone foolish enough to try will face dire consequences. This massive beast has a notoriously bad temperament, and among all dragons, he ranks as one of the most fierce.

Dragonrider: Rhaenys Targaryen

As stated, Meraxes surpassed the massive Vhagar but remained smaller than the legendary Balerion the Black Dread – indeed, a powerful entity of nature. Notably, King Aegon I Targaryen’s sister Rhaenys Targaryen served as her dragonrider and played a crucial role in supporting her brother and spouse during his conquest of Westeros.

In the First Dornish War, Meraxes played a significant role in many of Aegon’s victories. Regrettably, she met her end in battle. A fatal iron scorpion bolt struck her eye during the conflict, leading not only to Meraxes’ demise but also the death of Rhaenys. Following their tragic deaths, Aegon went on a destructive rampage, setting fire to every Dornish fortress at least once. The skull of Meraxes was later presented to Aegon as part of a peace negotiation.

Dragonriders: Visenya Targaryen, Baelon Targaryen, Laena Velaryon, Aemond Targaryen

Without a doubt, if you’re a fan of “House of the Dragon,” you’re now well-aware that Vhagar stands among the most terrifying dragons ever to soar over Westeros. Apart from the mighty Balerion, Vhagar is the largest dragon, her immense wingspan and colossal frame striking fear into anyone who beholds her as she glides above. In the climactic finale of Season 1, “House of the Dragon” masterfully heightened the tension by emphasizing Vhagar’s imposing size, as her ominous shadow loomed on the clouds just before Prince Aemond Targaryen took the life of Rhaenyra Targaryen’s son – marking the beginning of the infamous Dance of the Dragons.

Vhagar is an incredibly renowned dragon, with significant riders like Visenya Targaryen, Baelon Targaryen, and Laena Velaryon having previously mounted it before Aemond took possession of it unnoticed by all. After the skirmish depicted in “The Red Dragon and the Gold,” Vhagar’s menace to any contenders has never been clearer.

Dragonriders: Aegon the Conqueror, Maegor the Cruel, Princess Aerea Targaryen, Viserys I Targaryen

In the annals of Westeros, none compare to the legendary Black Dreead, Balerion, known for its colossal size, devastating power, and enduring iconicity. Born in Old Valyria, Balerion was one of the rare dragons that survived the cataclysmic event known as the Doom of Valyria, when Aenar Targaryen evacuated the ancient city. With his siblings perishing, Balerion stood as the sole witness to Valyria’s grandeur in its heyday. Later on, he was claimed by – and established a connection with – King Aegon I Targaryen.

In the realm of Westeros, it’s widely acknowledged that my existence as Balerion, Aegon the Conqueror’s formidable dragon, was instrumental in the establishment and continuation of the Targaryen dynasty. I was employed to spread terror among those who dared defy Aegon, and to incinerate any who had the audacity to carry out their threats. Unfortunately, after my master’s passing, Maegor the Cruel seized me – an event that would prove to be one of the most catastrophic in Westeros’ history up until that point. Known for his cruelty, Maegor demonstrated his malevolence as he used me to torment countless individuals, many of whom may not have deserved such treatment.

Following Maegor’s association with Princess Aerea Targaryen, who took control of the Black Dread and vanished with him for two years before reappearing critically ill and dying shortly afterward without any clear explanation. Later, Balerion formed a connection with King Viserys I Targaryen, but in his later years, he was no longer the formidable threat he once was. King Viserys rode Balerion only three times, all within King’s Landing and never into battle. Just under a year after Viserys claimed Balerion as his steed, the revered Black Dread breathed its last due to old age – one of the few dragons to be so honored. No dragon could have defeated Balerion, who passed away peacefully, on his own terms, concluding a lifetime marked by chaos brought about by the Targaryens.

In summary, it’s important to mention that when Balerion vanished, he was bonded with Aerea Targaryen and sustained a massive wound, about 9 feet long, on his left side during their travels. It has been speculated that they may have visited Valyria during their absence, where they encountered a wild dragon once owned by Aurion, the Emperor of Valyria. This encounter would have taken place around 150 years after the destruction of Valyria, but there’s a possibility that Aurion’s dragon survived and posed a formidable challenge to Balerion. Thus, while Balerion is generally recognized as the largest and most ferocious dragon in the saga of “A Song of Ice and Fire,” there might have been an even more dangerous and potentially larger one lurking in the enigmatic regions of the Known World.

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2025-04-18 19:39

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