Malta may be a small island, but it has served as the backdrop for some of the biggest Hollywood movies and TV series. Filmmakers have come to favor Malta’s film locations due to its stunning landscapes, ancient architecture, and pristine waters. Whether you’re a movie buff or just curious about the island’s role in cinema, here’s a list of films shot in Malta that we can guarantee you’ve heard of.
- Game of Thrones (2011-2019)
The globally acclaimed TV series Game of Thrones brought Malta into the spotlight, with several scenes shot across the island. The most famous of these is the Azure Window in Gozo, which provided the backdrop for the wedding of Khal Drogo and Daenerys Targaryen. Despite the collapse of the natural arch in 2017, other filming locations such as Mdina’s city gates and Fort Ricasoli continue to provide fans with an opportunity to experience the lives of their beloved characters.
- Gladiator (2000)
The Oscar-winning epic Gladiator, starring Russell Crowe, transformed Fort Ricasoli into ancient Rome. The historic fort was used to depict parts of the Colosseum, making it one of the most recognized Malta filming locations. In addition, scenes were shot in the old port of Vittoriosa, one of the famous Three Cities known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Popeye (1980)
The 1980 live-action Popeye movie, starring Robin Williams, left a lasting impact on Malta. A full-fledged film set was built in Anchor Bay, which today is known as Popeye Village. This colorful village has been repurposed into a theme park where visitors can explore the original set, take boat rides, and enjoy family-friendly entertainment.
- Troy (2004)
Starring Brad Pitt and Eric Bana, Troy made use of Malta’s stunning coastline, including the famous Blue Lagoon in Comino. The pristine blue waters and rugged cliffs created the perfect setting for the grand battle scenes. Additionally, Fort Ricasoli served as the entrance to ancient Troy, further solidifying its place as a go-to filming location.
- Midnight Express (1978)
Despite being set in a Turkish prison, much of Midnight Express was actually filmed in Malta. Valletta’s Suq tal-Belt (Valletta Market) and surrounding streets were used as stand-ins for Istanbul, giving audiences a glimpse of Malta’s historical urban landscape. The film, which won multiple Academy Awards, remains one of the most famous movies filmed in Malta.
- Munich (2005)
Steven Spielberg’s Munich, a gripping political thriller, turned Malta into multiple different cities, including Tel Aviv, Athens, and Rome. Scenes were shot in Sliema, Bugibba, Republic Street in Valletta, and Rabat, showcasing the island’s architectural diversity. The footage demonstrates how Malta’s unique appearance allows it to stand in for various international locations.
- Captain Phillips (2013)
This Tom Hanks-led thriller, based on a true story, was partially filmed in Malta’s harbors, specifically the Grand Harbour in Senglea and the Freeport Terminals in Birzebuggia and Marsaxlokk. These locations provided the perfect maritime setting for this gripping tale of modern piracy.
- World War Z (2013)
Although World War Z was set in Jerusalem, the film used Fort St Elmo in Valletta to recreate the besieged city. This historic fort, which also houses Malta’s National War Museum, was the ideal location to capture the apocalyptic chaos of the zombie outbreak.
- By the Sea (2015)
Starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, By the Sea was filmed in Mgarr ix-Xini Bay in Gozo. Despite the movie’s mixed reviews, the secluded bay gained recognition for its stunning beauty. The serene setting continues to be a treasure for those in search of a tranquil getaway.
- Assassin’s Creed (2016)
The action-packed adaptation of the popular Assassin’s Creed video game was primarily filmed at Fort Ricasoli, reinforcing its reputation as a prime medieval setting. The fort’s ancient walls and strategic coastal position made it the perfect location for this historical action thriller.
Malta is becoming an increasingly popular destination for both blockbuster hits and independent films. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and versatile architecture, the island is set to remain a hotspot for filmmakers from around the world. If you’re a raging movie enthusiast or simply a fan visiting Malta, why not explore some of these iconic movie locations and relive the magic of cinema firsthand?
