When it comes to iconic dragons in the world of Westeros, Balerion the Black Dread is undoubtedly the most fearsome and legendary of them all. Known for his immense size, strength, and black-scaled appearance, Balerion was ridden by some of the most potent Targaryen rulers in history. But who exactly rode Balerion, and what impact did he have on the Seven Kingdoms?
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the rich history of Balerion and the Targaryens who were brave enough to ride him. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of who rode Balerion and why he remains such a significant figure in Westerosi lore.
The Origins of Balerion
Balerion, often referred to as the Black Dread, was one of the original dragons brought to Westeros by the Targaryen family. He was named after an ancient god of Valyria and was the largest and oldest of the Targaryen dragons. His fire was said to be black as night, and his wingspan was vast enough to cast a shadow over entire towns.
As the last living dragon from Old Valyria, Balerion was a symbol of power and dominance, making him the preferred mount of some of the most influential Targaryen rulers. The connection between Balerion and his riders was not just one of convenience but of trust, loyalty, and power.
Aegon the Conqueror: Balerion’s First Rider
When discussing who rode Balerion, the first name that inevitably comes to mind is Aegon the Conqueror. Aegon I Targaryen, the founder of the Targaryen dynasty, rode Balerion during his conquest of the Seven Kingdoms. With Balerion’s might, Aegon was able to unify nearly all of Westeros under his rule, a feat that was previously thought impossible.
Why Did Aegon Choose Balerion?
Aegon chose Balerion for his conquest because of the dragon’s size and unmatched strength. No other dragon at the time could compare to Balerion’s sheer power. With Balerion’s flames, Aegon destroyed Harrenhal, one of the largest castles in Westeros, proving just how terrifying Balerion’s might be.
Aegon’s bond with Balerion went beyond mere utility. Their partnership symbolized the overwhelming force of the Targaryens. Aegon didn’t just ride Balerion into battle; he used the dragon as a tool to shape the future of Westeros, establishing a legacy that would last for centuries.
Maegor the Cruel: Baler ion’s Fearsome Second Rider
After Aegon, the following significant figure who rode Balerion was Maegor the Cruel, Aegon’s son. Maegor’s reign was marked by brutality and violence, and Balerion was a fitting mount for such a ruthless ruler.
Maegor and Balerion’s Legacy
Maegor used Balerion to enforce his iron-fisted rule. During his time as king, Maegor ordered the construction of the Red Keep and used Balerion to crush any rebellions that arose against his reign. One of Maegor’s most infamous acts was flying Balerion to the Sept of Remembrance, where he burned the Faith Militant who opposed him.
Though Maegor’s rule was short and filled with controversy, his connection to Balerion cemented his legacy as one of the most feared kings in Westeros.
Viserys I: Baler ion’s Final Rider
After Maegor, several generations passed before another Targaryen took up the reins of Balerion. The dragon had grown old, and many wondered if there would be another rider. Eventually, Viserys I Targaryen became Balerion’s final rider.
Balerion’s Death
By the time Viserys rode him, Balerion was nearing the end of his life. He was slower and less formidable than he had been in his prime. Viserys only rode Balerion a few times before the dragon passed away of old age, his immense size a reminder of the power he once wielded.
Despite his age, Balerion’s legacy lived on. He became a symbol of the Targaryen dynasty, and his skull was later displayed in the Red Keep as a testament to the strength of the family’s dragons.
The Impact of Balerion on Westeros
Understanding who rode Balerion is only part of the story. Balerion’s real impact lies in his immense influence on the politics, power dynamics, and culture of Westeros.
Political Power
The Targaryens used Balerion not just as a tool for battle but as a symbol of their right to rule. Balerion’s fire could melt castles, and his shadow alone inspired fear. The dragon became a living representation of Targaryen dominance, and every rider who mounted Balerion reinforced their claim to the Iron Throne.
Cultural Significance
In the centuries following Balerion’s death, the Black Dread became a figure of legend. Stories of his size, his fire, and the destruction he wrought spread throughout Westeros. Bards sang of his feats, and his name was whispered in awe by ordinary folk. Even though Balerion was long gone, his presence was still felt, shaping the culture and mythology of the land.
Baler ion’s Skull: A Reminder of His Power
Though Balerion passed away during Viserys I’s reign, his skull remained a symbol of the dragon’s immense power. Displayed in the Red Keep, Balerion’s skull was said to be larger than a carriage, its teeth as long as swords. Targaryen rulers would often visit the skull, standing in awe of the dragon who helped their family secure the throne.
The Black Dread’s legacy became so deeply ingrained in Targaryen’s identity that even centuries after his death, he was remembered as the greatest of all the Targaryen dragons.
Why Was Balerion So Special?
Among all the dragons that existed during the height of Targaryen’s power, Balerion the Black Dread stood out not only because of his size and strength but also because of his unique history.
Immense Size and Strength
Balerion was the largest of all the Targaryen dragons, with some claiming that his wings could block out the sun. He was so strong that he could carry an entire horse in his claws, and his flames were hot enough to melt stone.
Symbol of Targaryen Legacy
Balerion’s riders were some of the most influential Targaryens in history, and the dragon’s legacy became intertwined with that of the Targaryen family. Every ruler who rode Balerion added to the myth and power of the dragon, ensuring that his story would be told for generations.
Who is Rode Balerion? A Legacy Remembered
To fully appreciate who rode Balerion, it’s essential to understand the bond between dragon and rider. Each rider, from Aegon the Conqueror to Viserys I, formed a unique connection with Balerion, using the dragon’s immense power to shape the course of Westerosi’s history.
Rider | Reign | Significant Acts with Balerion |
---|---|---|
Aegon the Conqueror | 1 AC – 37 AC | The last rider of Balerion, ode him in his final years |
Maegor the Cruel | 42 AC – 48 AC | Crushed rebellions, burned the Faith Militant |
Viserys I Targaryen | 103 AC – 129 AC | Last rider of Balerion, rode him in his final years |
Conclusion
Who rode Balerion? The answer is more than just a list of names—it’s a glimpse into the history of Westeros and the Targaryen dynasty. Balerion the Black Dread was not just a dragon; he was a symbol of strength, power, and dominance. From Aegon’s conquest to Viserys’ peaceful reign, Balerion played a crucial role in shaping the world we know.
Balerion’s legacy as the most giant and most fearsome dragon to ever live continues to inspire awe, even long after his death. Whether it’s through stories, legends, or the presence of his massive skull, the memory of who rode Balerion lives on in the minds of all who hear his name.