'Popeye Village Malta', the Film Set of the 1980 Musical Production “Popeye”, also known as 'Popeye Village' today is one of Malta's major tourist attractions. The film set was constructed in Anchor Bay during the last 7 months of 1979.

To construct this authentic wooden village, tree trunk logs were trailered overland from Holland, and wood shingles, used in the construction of the roof tops, were imported all the way from Canada. A 165 international construction crew consumed eight tons of nails and two thousand gallons of paint to finish off this massive Set.

No less than 20 wooden structures had to be built. Before construction could begin, an access road leading to the Set had to be constructed. Also, Anchor Bay needed a 200-250 foot Breakwater at its mouth, to protect the Set from high seas during the shooting months of the Film Production. Filming commenced on the 23rd of January, 1980.

Popeye the Sailor Man cartoon character was introduced by Elzie Segar in 1929 in a comic strip named “Thimble Theatre”. After numerous successful Popeye cartoon strips and features loved by fans worldwide the decision to make a film was taken in the mid 1970’s. The musical film was based on a story written by Jules Fieffer, directed by Robert Altman and produced by Robert Evans. The Production Film Company was Lions Gate Films and the Distributors were Paramount Pictures and Walt Disney Productions.

The story relates to Popeye, a muscled one-eyed spinach loving sailor, coming to Sweet haven Village in the quest to find his father. During his time in Sweet haven Village, Popeye has many encounters with the village folk and naturally meets Olive Oyl, who was to be officially engaged to Captain Bluto. Olive Oyl as always is hesitant to get engaged and meets up with Popeye as she runs away from her own engagement party. Together they find an abandoned baby by the name of SWEE'PEA, who becomes a cupid to the unlikely pair. A courtship blossoms amongst the two loved main characters and in time Popeye does find his father. Olive Oyl is later kidnapped by the jealous captain Bluto who is in his way to steal Popeye’s father buried treasure. Popeye and gang are soon in pursuit and a final bout between Popeye and Bluto ends up by Popeye saving the day. The story ends with Popeye’s original motto: I YAM WHAT I YAM.

Main cast:

• Robin Williams as Popeye the Sailor
• Shelley Duvall as Olive Oyl
• Ray Walston as Poopdeck Pappy
• Paul L. Smith as Bluto
• Paul Dooley as J. Wellington Wimpy
• Richard Libertini as George W. Geezil
• Peter Bray as Oxblood Oxheart
• Linda Hunt as Mrs. Oxheart
• Donald Moffat as The Taxman
• MacIntyre Dixon as Cole Oyl
• Roberta Maxwell as Nana Oyl
• Donovan Scott as Castor Oyl
• Bill Irwin as Ham Gravy
• Wesley Ivan Hurt as Swee'Pea
• Dennis Franz as Spike (a bully)

Access Statement

Popeye Village, originally built as the film set for the 1980 musical Popeye, still stands today and has been transformed into a major tourist attraction for visitors of all ages.

As you enter this charming, nearly 47‑year‑old village, you will be welcomed by Popeye the Sailorman and his friends, who will host and entertain you throughout your visit. Families can take part in a unique filming experience with the animation crew, giving you the chance to see yourselves on the big screen.

A variety of attractions are available, including wooden carnival games, mini-golf, meet‑and‑greets with the Popeye characters, small museums, silversmith demonstrations, and several food outlets. During summer, guests can enjoy an inflatable water obstacle course, sunbathing decks, a beach lido, and more.

On weekends in winter, children can have fun in Malta’s largest indoor “Jump Around,” located in the upper part of the complex (additional cost applies).

This lively atmosphere is ideal for children’s parties and school outings. With many educational and creative activities, children can learn, play, and make new friends in the company of Popeye and his gang.

Popeye Village celebrates seasonal events in grand style, with themed decorations throughout the year. Meet Ricky the Rabbit at Easter, enjoy spooky fun at Halloween, and experience the magic of Christmas.

Whether you are organising a BBQ, a themed costume event, a fun day out, or a team‑building activity, our catering outlets and menus can help make your event a success. Couples seeking a unique seaside wedding venue will also find Popeye Village to be an unforgettable location.

Professional photo shoots and filming sessions require an additional fee and must be booked in advance. Unauthorized photo shoots will be stopped.

Make sure to be part of this enjoyable experience—visit Popeye Village.

Introduction

Popeye Village, also known as Sweethaven Village, was originally constructed as the film set for the 1980 musical Popeye, produced by Paramount Pictures and Walt Disney Productions. Located in Anchor Bay, just three kilometres from Mellieħa, the village was built in 1979 and consists of nineteen wooden buildings. Filming began on 23 January 1980.

Today, the film set operates as an open‑air museum and family entertainment complex, open to the public all year round.

Pre‑Arrival Services and Information

• Tickets can be purchased online; however, online tickets are non‑refundable.

• Promotional material is available at Malta Tourism Authority offices across Malta and Gozo, as well as in tourist areas such as Valletta, Sliema, and Bugibba. Agents also distribute material to hotels and rental apartments.

• Wheelchair users and visitors with mobility impairments can be driven down to the film set to avoid the steep ramp.

• If medication requires refrigeration, please speak to the Duty Manager for assistance.

• Small dogs (up to 10 kg) are permitted, provided they remain on a leash at all times.

• Adults are not allowed to enter the film set wearing full Popeye character costumes.

• Drone use on or from the film set is strictly prohibited.

• Photo shoots must be pre‑booked via email at info@popeyemalta.com.

Please note that the film set is mostly outdoors, which may be challenging for visitors who cannot remain in the sun for long periods. The steep ramps and numerous stairs may also pose difficulties for those with mobility issues.

Prices are available on the Popeye Village website: www.popeyemalta.com

Opening Hours

• Winter (Nov–Mar): 09:30 – 17:00

• Spring & Autumn (Apr & Oct): 09:30 – 17:30

• Summer (1 June – 30 Sept): 09:30 – 18:00

Contact Information

• Email: info@popeyemalta.com

• Telephone: (+356) 2152 4782 / 3 / 4

• Mobile: (+356) 7952 4782

Transport & Parking

By Car

Drive towards Mellieħa and follow the signs to Anchor Bay and Popeye Village, heading in the direction of Għadira Bay (Mellieħa Bay). A gravel car park with ample space is available and is wheelchair accessible. Parking is located just a few metres from the reception booth.

By Bus

Take any of the following buses to Għadira (Mellieħa Bay) or Ċirkewwa: X1, X1A, 41, 42, 49, 101, 221, 222, 250. From Għadira Bay, take bus 101 to Mġarr, which stops directly at Popeye Village. A bus stop is located just outside the entrance. Taxis can be booked at reception, and during peak periods taxis are often available near the reception booth.

Inside the Building (Entrance, Reception, Ticketing Area)

• The main entrance and ticket area are accessible via three steps or a ramp.

• After ticket purchase, visitors encounter five steps (approx. 6 inches high) and a ramp.

• The film set is accessible via a steep ramp or 30 steps (approx. 4 inches each).

• Many wooden houses require climbing an average of 10 steps to enter.

• Maps are available at reception, and clear pictorial signage is provided throughout.

• The reception desk is approximately 1 metre high, with a small bench available for seating.

• Each wooden house is equipped with fire extinguishers.

• Natural daylight illuminates the outdoor areas; indoor spaces have dim lighting, except for brighter areas such as reception and public toilets.

• Flooring is wooden or paved and may become slippery when wet. Benches and handrails are available along pathways.

Exhibits and Interpretation

• Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the premises.

• Verbal interpretation is provided at reception or during guided tours led by the Animation Department.

• Graphic interpretation is available on maps and signage, printed in font sizes 14–20.

• Audio interpretation is provided through PA announcements and shows.

• A documentary about the construction of the film set plays on loop in the Cinema, and the original movie plays continuously in the Information Room (Location 11).

• Additional information is available on display boards.

Public Toilets

• Toilets are located in both the upper and lower parts of the complex.

• Upper complex: 3 male and 3 female toilets, all wheelchair accessible.

• Lower complex: 4 male and 6 female toilets, plus one wheelchair‑accessible toilet.

• All toilets include baby‑changing facilities.

• Flooring consists of non‑slip tiles.

Catering Outlets

There are three catering outlets on site:

1. Diner (Upper Complex): Indoor and outdoor seating, plus Malta’s largest indoor “Jump Around” play area.

2. Snack Bar (Film Set): Indoor and outdoor seating with verandas overlooking Anchor Bay.

3. Summer Bay Bar: Serves ice cream, beverages, and light snacks, also overlooking Anchor Bay.

All outlets:

• Have movable tables

• Offer cashier service

• Provide menus in English with ingredients listed in font size 14

• Are wheelchair accessible

• Offer gluten‑free options on request

• Provide thick‑handled cutlery

Future Plans

Popeye Village is continuously being upgraded to enhance the visitor experience. The wooden houses are being transformed into new attractions, with final work underway on the Robin Williams Memorial Museum. Between 2023 and 2026, all roofs and structural elements of the film set were replaced according to original specifications.