<Li> Jonathan Rhys Meyers as Bishop Heahmund (seasons 4--) </Li> <P> An Irish - Canadian co-production, Vikings was developed and produced by Octagon Films and Take 5 Productions . Michael Hirst, Morgan O'Sullivan, John Weber, Sherry Marsh, Alan Gasmer, James Flynn and Sheila Hockin are credited as executive producers . The first season's budget has been reported as US $40 million . </P> <P> The series began filming in July 2012 at Ashford Studios, a newly built studio facility in Ireland, chosen as a location for its tax advantages . On August 16, 2012, longship scenes were filmed at Luggala, as well as on the Poulaphouca Reservoir, in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains. 70 percent of the first season was filmed outdoors . Some additional background shots were done in western Norway . </P> <P> Johan Renck, Ciarán Donnelly and Ken Girotti each directed three episodes . The production team includes cinematographer John Bartley, costume designer Joan Bergin, production designer Tom Conroy, composer Trevor Morris and Irish choir Crux Vocal Ensemble, directed by Paul McGough . </P>

Where was the first season of vikings filmed