The Netflix series "Godless" has captivated audiences with its gritty and intense portrayal of the American West in the late 1800s. One of the key elements that contribute to the show's authenticity and visual appeal is its use of filming locations. The series was primarily shot in New Mexico, with various locations throughout the state serving as the backdrop for the fictional town of La Belle and its surroundings. In this article, we will delve into the various filming locations used in "Godless," exploring the real-life places that brought this gripping drama to life.
Introduction to Godless Filming Locations

The production team behind “Godless” chose New Mexico for its diverse landscapes, which range from vast deserts to snow-capped mountains. This diversity allowed the filmmakers to create a visually stunning and immersive environment that perfectly captures the spirit of the American West. From the adobe architecture of Santa Fe to the rolling hills and vast open spaces of the New Mexico countryside, each location was carefully selected to transport viewers back in time to an era of lawlessness and pioneering spirit.
Key Points
- The Netflix series "Godless" was primarily filmed in New Mexico.
- Various locations throughout the state were used to depict the fictional town of La Belle and its surroundings.
- New Mexico's diverse landscapes, including deserts and mountains, were a key factor in the production team's decision to film there.
- The adobe architecture of Santa Fe and the rolling hills of the countryside were used to create an immersive environment.
- The show's use of real-life locations adds to its authenticity and visual appeal.
Santa Fe and Its Environs
Santa Fe, the capital city of New Mexico, played a significant role in the filming of “Godless.” The city’s historic downtown area, with its adobe buildings and narrow streets, was used to depict the town of La Belle. The production team took advantage of Santa Fe’s unique architecture, filming scenes in and around the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Palace of the Governors and the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. The surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills and vast open spaces, was also used to film scenes of the characters riding horses and interacting with the natural environment.
Location | Description |
---|---|
Santa Fe | Historic downtown area used to depict La Belle |
Palace of the Governors | Iconic landmark used as a filming location |
Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi | Featured in scenes as a key location in La Belle |

Abiquiu and the Chama River Valley

Located about 60 miles northwest of Santa Fe, the village of Abiquiu and the Chama River Valley were used to film many of the show’s outdoor scenes. The area’s stunning natural beauty, with its red rock formations and rolling hills, provided a breathtaking backdrop for scenes of the characters interacting with the environment. The production team also used the area’s historic adobe buildings, such as the Abiquiu Inn, to film interior scenes.
Angel Fire and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains
The mountain resort town of Angel Fire, located in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, was used to film scenes of the characters in the snowy wilderness. The area’s stunning mountain scenery, with its snow-capped peaks and frozen lakes, provided a dramatic backdrop for scenes of the characters struggling to survive in the harsh environment. The production team also used the area’s historic buildings, such as the Angel Fire Resort, to film interior scenes.
In conclusion, the filming locations used in "Godless" play a crucial role in creating the show's immersive and visually stunning environment. From the adobe architecture of Santa Fe to the rolling hills and vast open spaces of the New Mexico countryside, each location was carefully selected to transport viewers back in time to an era of lawlessness and pioneering spirit. By using real-life locations, the production team was able to create a sense of authenticity and connection to the environment, allowing viewers to become fully immersed in the world of "Godless."
What was the primary filming location for the Netflix series “Godless”?
+The primary filming location for “Godless” was New Mexico, with various locations throughout the state used to depict the fictional town of La Belle and its surroundings.
What type of landscapes did the production team use to film the show’s outdoor scenes?
+The production team used a variety of landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and rolling hills, to film the show’s outdoor scenes.
What was the significance of using real-life locations in the filming of “Godless”?
+The use of real-life locations added a level of authenticity to the show, allowing viewers to connect with the characters and their environment on a deeper level.