Lights, Camera… Malta! Visiting My Very Own Movie Set
Malta isn’t just a Mediterranean gem full of golden stone buildings, crystal-clear waters, and sun-drenched views — it’s also one of the world’s most underrated film sets. Over the years, it’s doubled as Ancient Rome, King’s Landing, Troy, and even the wild west. The best bit? You can explore all these "sets" in real life — no green screens necessary!
Here’s what it’s like stepping into the reel world of Malta...
Gladiator Vibes at Fort Ricasoli First stop: Fort Ricasoli in Kalkara — aka Ancient Rome. If you've seen Gladiator, chances are you’ve already seen this place, even if you didn’t realise it. This was Maximus’ battlefield, and standing there gives you goosebumps (minus the crowds and CGI fireballs, thankfully).
It’s not open every day, but even viewing it from the outside feels epic. I half expected Russell Crowe to storm around the corner in full armour.
Game of Thrones Fans: Welcome to King’s Landing Yes, you read that right — Malta was the original King’s Landing in Season 1 of Game of Thrones! Walk through the silent city of Mdina and you'll recognise it instantly. The city walls, winding alleys, and dramatic city gates all played their part.
I stood outside the Mdina Gate whispering “You’re in the great game now,” to myself like a total nerd (no regrets). Just nearby, in San Anton Gardens, you’ll also find the location where Ned Stark confronted Cersei. Go ahead and channel your inner Hand of the King.
Popeye Village – Cartoon Magic Brought to Life This one is pure childhood nostalgia. Popeye Village in Anchor Bay is where the 1980 musical Popeye (starring Robin Williams) was filmed — and the set is still there, in all its quirky, colourful glory.
It’s a weird and wonderful place with crooked houses, wooden piers, and a slightly surreal vibe. I climbed through the rickety buildings, met “Popeye” in person, and even watched a little live show. Whether or not you’re a fan of the film, it’s fun, kitschy, and completely unique.
Bonus: the bay is stunning. Bring a swimsuit and have a dip with Popeye’s view.
Epic Drama in Valletta’s Backstreets Valletta isn’t just Malta’s capital — it’s also a director’s dream. Assassin’s Creed, Munich, Murder on the Orient Express, World War Z, and By the Sea (with Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt) all used the city’s dramatic baroque streets and harbours as their backdrop.
Walking through Valletta’s old town, you’ll see why. Every corner has that “cinematic” feel — steep steps, worn limestone, pastel balconies, and sweeping sea views. At one point I genuinely paused and thought, Should I be in costume right now? It’s that atmospheric.
Troy & The Sea at Ghajn Tuffieha Remember Troy with Brad Pitt as Achilles? That was filmed at Ghajn Tuffieha Bay — a golden sand beach flanked by dramatic cliffs. Standing on the edge, with waves crashing below, you can absolutely picture epic battles and sweeping romance (or just have a peaceful swim and soak it all in).
It’s one of Malta’s best beaches — and one of my favourite places to watch the sun set.
Small Island, Big Screen Moments The incredible thing is how much variety Malta packs into such a small space. One day you’re in ancient Rome, the next you’re in a fantasy realm or a sleepy fishing village that looks like it was plucked straight out of a Wes Anderson film. And everywhere you go, you hear “Oh, they filmed something here!”
Even lesser-known spots like Marsaxlokk, with its colourful boats and seafood stalls, have been used in international productions. It’s like the island itself is a working actor, changing costumes from one era to another.
Why I Felt Like the Star of the Show What makes Malta even more magical is that it doesn’t feel like a film set. These places are real, living, breathing parts of the island — and you can wander them at your own pace, no tickets or turnstiles required.
And maybe that’s what makes it special. For a few days, I wasn’t just watching the movie — I was in it. Drinking coffee on ancient steps, sailing past fortress walls, watching the sun rise over a bay that once held Greek ships or Roman legions (depending on the script).
Whether you're a film buff, a history nerd, or just love discovering new places that feel a bit different, Malta is the ultimate real-life movie set. No director shouting “cut”, no spoilers — just you, the scenery, and a little movie magic.
Heading to Malta soon? Bring your camera, your sense of adventure… and maybe a gladiator quote or two.
Because when you're in Malta, the story is yours to tell.
“What we do in life echoes in eternity.” – Maximus, Gladiator
