Popeye Village was on our list of places to see as soon as my friends and I decided to travel to Malta. This quirky attraction, which is tucked away on the island’s northern coast, began as a Hollywood set for Robin Williams’ 1980 musical Popeye. Instead of tearing down the set after filming, the creators kept it intact, turning it into a vibrant, vibrant village for a memorable day out. Popeye Village now attracts tourists of all ages with its unique combination of nostalgia, joy, and Maltese coastal charm.
Stepping into Popeye Village
With each house built at odd angles to create a unique yet attractive appearance Popeye Village is like entering a real-life movie set. From the ticket booth, the walk descends past a model of Popeye’s fishing boat and enters a colourful cove surrounded by wooden buildings that are slightly crooked but otherwise colourful. In order to bring the 1980 movie set to life, a team of 165 foreign labourers constructed the village using supplies including Canadian shingles and Dutch timber, as well as a breakwater and an access road.
Because of the set’s preservation, tourists can enjoy the allure of a vintage film scene in a location where Maltese beauty and Hollywood history collide. The village has a distinctly storybook vibe, on sunny, rainy or cloudy days!
Meeting the Famous Cast
The opportunity to meet Popeye, Olive Oyl, and Captain Bluto—all of whom are portrayed by actors who engage with visitors throughout the village—was an exciting aspect of the visit. We even took pictures ourselves, and Popeye and Olive oyl were immediately attracted by our camera!
As we looked around each building, we discovered that some are now exhibits, while others have been kept exactly as they were during filming. One of the highlights was the Cartoon Museum, where guests could discover the comic book beginnings of Popeye, which was created by E.C. Segar. Fans can experience even more nostalgia thanks to the museum’s collection of original comic strip and movie memorabilia.
Exploring Activities and Attractions
In addition to filming, Popeye Village offers a plethora of entertainment options for guests. There are large games like giant Jenga, a life-size spider web maze, and even a face-painting station in the village’s covered play area. The staff was amiable and enthusiastic, which added to the fun, and the atmosphere was lively enough for us to enjoy these activities even though it was primarily intended for families.
We looked around Olive Oyl’s kitchen, Popeye’s bedroom, and a traditional jewellery store where a local silversmith creates Maltese jewellery inside the set buildings. It’s a terrific place to find distinctive souvenirs with a Maltese touch.
Dining and Scenic Relaxation Club
Popeye Village has two cozy cafes offering both indoor and outdoor seating with fantastic views of the cove. We took a break here, enjoying the scenery and imagining how this picturesque setting must have looked during filming. In summer, visitors can relax on sun loungers, swim in the bay, or take advantage of water trampolines and beach lidos. Boat excursions are also available in good weather, making the village a perfect place to spend a ful day relaxing and exploring.
Special Events and Seasons
Popeye Village offers various events and packages all year round, adapting its attractions according to the season. The village becomes a beautiful wonderland at Christmas, while Halloween and Easter celebrations add even more enjoyment. Popeye Village even provides packages for wedding celebrations with a pleasing touch for those looking for a distinctive wedding location!
Here’s a quick look at the seasonal hours:
- November to March: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
- April to June, September & October: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm
- July & August: 9:30 am – 7:00 pm
Contact Information:
- E-mail: info@popeyemalta.com
- Telephone Number: (+356) 2152 4782 / 3 / 4
For a mix of Hollywood nostalgia, scenic views, and lighthearted fun, Popeye Village is a perfect spot to explore with friends in Malta. Whether you’re revisiting childhood memories of Popeye or simply enjoying a unique day out, this quirky village offers a delightful escape with something for everyone.
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