The Targaryen family tree is a sprawling saga of conquest, dragons, and dynastic intrigue. From the Valyrian origins of House Targaryen to the fiery reigns of its kings and queens, no family has left a greater mark on the history of Westeros. This guide examines every key character, event, and dragon that defined their legacy.
Introduction to the Targaryen Family Tree
The Targaryen family tree represents the genealogy of one of the most important families in Westeros, stretching back centuries to their Valyrian roots. Known for their dragons, silver-gold hair, and fiery temperaments, the Targaryens are the essence of power and tragedy in Westerosi history.
The family tree highlights key members like Rhaenyra Targaryen , the first woman to claim the Iron Throne, and Aegon Targaryen , the conqueror who united the Seven Kingdoms. It also features tragic figures like Daenerys Targaryen , who sought to reclaim her family’s lost throne.
The Origins of House Targaryen
The Valyrian Legacy
House Targaryen was one of 40 dragonlord families in the Valyrian Freehold, a mighty empire built on dragonfire and sorcery. Although not the most powerful family in Valyria, the Targaryens became the sole survivors of the Doom of Valyria thanks to Daenys the Dreamer , who foresaw the cataclysm.
Aenar Targaryen and Dragonstone
In 114 BC, Aenar Targaryen relocated his family to Dragonstone, a volcanic island near Westeros. This move ensured the survival of their lineage and dragons, including Balerion the Black Dread , the greatest of the Targaryen dragons.
The Targaryen Family Tree & Their Conquest
Aegon Targaryen and His Legacy
Aegon Targaryen, also known as Aegon the Conqueror, began his campaign to unite the Seven Kingdoms in 2 BC. Alongside his sister-wives, Visenya and Rhaenys Targaryen, Aegon used his dragons to conquer Westeros.
Key events include:
- The Field of Fire: Aegon’s dragons annihilated the combined forces of the Reach and Westerlands.
- The Submission of the North: Torrhen Stark bent the knee, avoiding bloodshed.
- The Construction of the Iron Throne: Aegon forged the throne from the swords of his enemies, symbolizing Targaryen supremacy.
Visenya and Rhaenys Targaryen
Visenya, a fierce warrior, and Rhaenys, known for her charm, played pivotal roles in the conquest. Both surrounded dragons—Visenya on Vhagar and Rhaenys on Meraxes—cementing their family’s dominance.
The Targaryen Dynasty: Key Rulers
Jaehaerys I Targaryen (The Old King)
Known as the most celebrated Targaryen king, Jaehaerys I Targaryen ruled for 55 years. His reign was marked by stability, prosperity, and the construction of significant infrastructure, such as the King’s Road.
Viserys Targaryen and the Dance of the Dragons
Viserys I Targaryen was a well-meaning ruler whose decision to name Rhaenyra Targaryen as his heir divided the realm. His death triggered the Dance of the Dragons , a civil war between Rhaenyra and her half-brother Aegon II Targaryen .
Rhaenyra Targaryen and the Dance of the Dragons
Rhaenyra Targaryen’s Claim
Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen , often referred to as “The Realm’s Delight,” was the first woman named heir to the Iron Throne. Her claim was challenged by her half-brother Aegon Targaryen , who was crowned king by the greens.
Aegon Targaryen and Aemond Targaryen’s Role
Aegon Targaryen , known as Aegon II, led the greens against Rhaenyra’s black faction. His brother, Aemond Targaryen , gained infamy for killing Rhaenyra’s son Lucerys Velaryon during the war.
Daemon Targaryen’s Legacy
Daemon Targaryen , Rhaenyra’s husband and uncle, was a fearsome warrior and a staunch supporter of her claim. He surrounded Caraxes , a dragon as fierce as his master, and played a critical role in several battles.
The Fall of House Targaryen
Rhaegar Targaryen and Robert’s Rebellion
Rhaegar Targaryen , the eldest son of Aerys II Targaryen , fell in love with Lyanna Stark, triggering Robert’s Rebellion. Rhaegar’s actions, combined with Aerys’s madness, led to the overthrow of the Targaryen dynasty.
Aerys II Targaryen (The Mad King)
Aerys Targaryen was the last Targaryen king to sit on the Iron Throne. His paranoia and cruelty culminated in his death at the hands of Jaime Lannister during the Sack of King’s Landing.
The Last Targaryens in Targaryen Family Tree
Daenerys Targaryen
Daenerys Targaryen , often called the Mother of Dragons, was the last Targaryen to actively pursue the Iron Throne. Her journey from exile in Essos to her tragic downfall in King’s Landing is one of the most iconic arcs in Westerosi history.
Jon Snow (Aegon Targaryen)
Jon Snow , revealed to be Aegon Targaryen , is the son of Rhaegar Targaryen and Lyanna Stark. His true lineage made him the rightful heir to the Iron Throne, although he chose duty over ambition.
Dragons of the Targaryen Family Tree
Dragons were integral to the Targaryens’ power. Notable dragons include:
- Balerion the Black Dread: Ridden by Aegon the Conqueror.
- Vhagar: The oldest and most fearsome dragon, ridden by Visenya and later Aemond Targaryen.
- Drogon: Daenerys’s most loyal dragon.
House Targaryen in Popular Culture
The Targaryen family tree has captivated audiences in both Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon . The portrayal of Rhaenyra Targaryen by Emma D’Arcy and Milly Alcock has particularly resonated with fans.
