Nestled on the rugged north-western coast of Malta lies a curious relic of cinematic history: an entire village built for a Disney film in the 1980s, now standing as a perfectly preserved open-air museum. This is Popeye Village, the purpose-built set for the 1980 musical comedy 'Popeye', starring Robin Williams and Shelley Duvall, which has outlived the film's own fame to become one of Malta's most unique tourist attractions.
From Multi-Million Dollar Set to Family Attraction
The construction of the village, known in the film as Sweethaven, was a colossal effort. Work began in June 1979, with a crew of 165 people labouring for four months to create the settlement. They used hundreds of logs and thousands of wooden planks imported from the Netherlands to construct the 19 rustic wooden buildings that cling to the cliffside of Anchor Bay.
The remote, stunning location proved a major challenge for filmmakers. Every piece of equipment and material had to be shipped in, and the exposed cove was regularly battered by storms. These difficulties caused the film's budget to balloon, eventually exceeding $20 million, prompting the studio to halt filming in Malta and complete work back in California.
A Surprisingly Affordable Day Out in a Stunning Cove
Today, for an entry fee of just 15 euros (approximately £13) per person, visitors can explore this slice of film history. The attraction represents remarkable value, offering guests the freedom to roam the set at their leisure with numerous free inclusions.
During a visit in the low season, the experience is particularly rewarding. The site features:
- Guided tours and interactive exhibitions.
- Live actors providing atmosphere and photo opportunities.
- Puppet shows, a cinema, and a complimentary bag of fresh popcorn.
- Mini-golf courses and play areas.
- Bars and cafes with minimal queues outside peak times.
Unlike many static museums, guests are actively encouraged to interact with the set—sitting on furniture, handling props, and fully immersing themselves in the whimsical world.
A Legacy Outshining the Film Itself
The film 'Popeye', released in the UK in April 1981, received a mixed critical reception and has since faded into relative obscurity among Disney's catalogue. It currently holds a 5.4 rating on IMDb and a 60% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
Yet, its physical legacy is undeniable. The village stands as a testament to Malta's rich film industry history, which has hosted productions like Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and The Count of Monte Cristo. The preserved set offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea crashing against limestone cliffs, making the scenery alone worth the admission price.
A visit can easily fill over three hours, as explorers investigate every nook and cranny of the ramshackle huts. For travellers seeking an unusual and historically intriguing day out that combines cinema, culture, and stunning natural beauty, Popeye Village is a captivating destination. It ultimately poses a compelling question: can the preserved film set now be considered more successful and enduring than the movie it was built to serve?
