Curious about why Westeros is called the Seven Kingdoms when the map clearly shows 9 regions, and how that history connects to both the books and HBO’s spinoffs? As Aegon Targaryen’s Conquest reshaped the political landscape, later rulers maintained centuries-old titles. The lore blends shifting borders, royal styles, and religious influence across the continent.
Here’s a breakdown of all nine kingdoms of Westeros and the history behind the name that defined the realm.
List of all ‘nine’ kingdoms on Westeros’ map
Westeros carries the traditional title of the Seven Kingdoms, a name that predates Aegon Targaryen’s Conquest in George R. R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire.
Before unification, numerous kings ruled the continent, and recorded history counts nearly one hundred separate realms at different points. When Aegon launched his invasion, seven dominant kingdoms controlled most of Westeros, establishing the foundation for the royal title that followed. Aegon defeated six of those rulers. Dorne resisted conquest and remained independent until 161 AC. A marriage alliance later brought it into the realm.
Even after the realm expanded, the king retained the title Lord of the Seven Kingdoms, preserving established tradition and acknowledging the influence of the Faith of the Seven in the south. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Season 1 Episode 6 directly addresses the numerical difference between the seven kingdoms and nine regions within the narrative.
After securing the throne, Aegon divided the Isles and Rivers, creating the Iron Islands and the Riverlands as distinct political territories. Aegon also founded King’s Landing at the site of his landing, and the surrounding territory became the Crownlands, ruled directly by the Iron Throne. These changes resulted in nine administrative regions across the continent.
The nine kingdoms are:
- The North: Formerly an independent kingdom under the Kings of Winter, ruled by House Stark from Winterfell.
- The Vale: Once the Kingdom of the Mountain and Vale, ruled by House Arryn from the Eyrie.
- The Iron Islands: Previously joined with the Riverlands under House Hoare, later ruled by House Greyjoy.
- The Riverlands: Granted to House Tully after the fall of Harren the Black.
- The Westerlands: The former Kingdom of the Rock, ruled by House Lannister.
- The Reach: Once ruled by House Gardener, later by House Tyrell from Highgarden.
- The Stormlands: Formerly under House Durrandon, later ruled by House Baratheon.
- The Crownlands: Lands surrounding King’s Landing under House Targaryen.
- Dorne: Ruled by House Martell, maintaining distinct customs and inheritance laws.
All seasons of Game of Thrones, along with House of the Dragon and A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, are available to stream on HBO Max.
