Discover Valletta: Top Movies, TV Series, and Books Set in the Valletta

Valletta, the capital city of Malta, has a vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking architecture that has captivated filmmakers worldwide. From blockbuster hits to popular TV series, numerous productions have utilized Valletta’s unique charm to create memorable cinematic moments. This article will guide you through the city’s famous filming locations, explore its literary connections, and provide practical travel tips for your journey.

Valletta’s Silver Screen: 7 Famous Films Shot in Valletta

Valletta’s stunning cityscapes and historic sites have served as the backdrop for a variety of films. Here are seven notable films shot in Valletta:

1. “Midnight Express” (1978): This gripping drama about a man imprisoned in Turkey for drug smuggling features several scenes shot in Valletta’s old prison.
2. “Gladiator” (2000): Ridley Scott’s epic historical drama used Fort Ricasoli in Valletta to depict the city of Rome.
3. “Troy” (2004): The ancient fortifications of Valletta were used to recreate the legendary city of Troy in this epic war film.
4. “World War Z” (2013): Valletta’s historic streets were transformed into a terrifying zombie apocalypse for this Brad Pitt starrer.
5. “Assassin’s Creed” (2016): The Maltese capital features prominently in this action-adventure film based on the video game series of the same name.
6. “Murder on the Orient Express” (2017): Scenes depicting the exterior of the Jerusalem train station were filmed in Valletta.
7. “13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi” (2016): Michael Bay’s action thriller about the 2012 Benghazi attack used Valletta to represent Libya.

These films not only showcase the city’s versatility as a filming location but also highlight its contribution to the cinematic arts.

Small Screen Magic: 5 TV Shows Set in Valletta

Valletta’s allure extends beyond the silver screen, serving as the backdrop for numerous television series. Here are five shows that have captured the essence of this charming city:

1. “Game of Thrones” (2011-2019): The iconic city of King’s Landing was partly filmed in Valletta in the show’s first season.
2. “Marco Polo” (2014-2016): Valletta’s grand architecture and natural beauty were used to depict various locations in this historical drama.
3. “Sense8” (2015-2018): The Wachowski’s sci-fi drama shot several scenes in Valletta for its second season.
4. “Das Boot” (2018-present): This German television series, a sequel to the 1981 film of the same name, was partly filmed in Valletta.
5. “Devils” (2020-present): This financial thriller series used Valletta to portray various international locations.

Through these series, viewers can explore different facets of Valletta’s culture and history, all from the comfort of their homes.

Animated Adventures: 3 Animated Films Set in Valletta

Valletta’s charm isn’t just limited to live-action films and TV shows. The city has also served as an inspiration for various animated adventures. Here are three animated films that bring the spirit of Valletta to life:

1. “The Count of Monte Cristo” (2002): This animated adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel features several scenes set in Valletta.
2. “Valletta: A City in Europe” (2015): This short film offers an animated tour of Valletta, highlighting its various landmarks.
3. “Valletta – A Personal City Guide by Lewis” (2019): This animated travel guide provides a unique, personal perspective of Valletta, showcasing its historic sites and hidden gems.

These animated features celebrate Valletta’s unique blend of historical grandeur and modern charm, providing audiences with engaging stories and stunning visuals that highlight the city’s allure.

Literary Connections: Famous Books Set in Valletta

Valletta’s rich history and unique culture have inspired many authors. Here are some famous books, both classic and contemporary, set in Valletta that will transport you to the heart of this captivating city:

Classic:

1. “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas: This classic adventure novel features several scenes set in Valletta.
2. “The Maltese Falcon” by Dashiell Hammett: Although mostly set in San Francisco, this iconic detective novel takes its title from the legendary artifact said to originate from Malta.

Contemporary:

1. “The Information Officer” by Mark Mills: This World War II thriller is set in and around Valletta, capturing the city’s atmosphere during the war.
2. “The Brass Dolphin” by Joanna Trollope: Set in Valletta, this novel explores the lives of the city’s inhabitants during the 18th century.
3. “The Sword of Malta” by John A. Mizzi: This historical novel is based on the events of the Great Siege of Malta in 1565 and provides a detailed depiction of Valletta during this period.

Whether you’re a fan of sweeping historical epics or gripping thrillers, these books offer a literary journey through Valletta’s multifaceted charm.

Where to Go: Exploring Valletta’s Filming Locations

If you’re eager to tread the paths of movie stars and soak up the cinematic history of this vibrant city, here are some essential filming locations in Valletta you must visit:

1. Fort Ricasoli: Featured in “Gladiator,” this 17th-century fort is a must-visit.
2. Saint Dominic’s Convent: This historic convent was used as the Red Keep in “Game of Thrones.”
3. Grand Harbour: Valletta’s stunning harbor has been featured in numerous films, including “World War Z” and “Murder on the Orient Express.”
4. Upper Barrakka Gardens: Offering stunning views of the Grand Harbour, these gardens were featured in “13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi.”
5. Saint John’s Co-Cathedral: This baroque cathedral is a must-visit for fans of “Das Boot.”

Exploring these filming locations offers a unique blend of sightseeing and entertainment, allowing you to immerse yourself in Valletta’s film heritage while enjoying its many cultural and historic attractions.

Where to Sleep in Valletta: From Budget to Luxury

Valletta offers a diverse array of accommodations, from the ultra-luxurious to the charmingly affordable. Here are some options:

Luxury:

1. The Phoenicia Malta: This historic hotel offers luxury accommodations with stunning views of the city.
2. Hotel Castille: A 16th-century building transformed into a luxury hotel, it offers a blend of traditional charm and modern comfort.
3. The Saint John: This boutique hotel in the heart of Valletta offers chic and stylish accommodations.

Budget:

1. The British Hotel: This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of the Grand Harbour.
2. Valletta Merisi Suites: These self-catering suites offer affordable accommodations in the heart of the city.
3. Grand Harbour Hotel: This budget hotel offers simple, clean rooms with views of the harbor.

Whether you’re seeking luxury or affordability, Valletta offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every travel style.

A Taste of Valletta: Where to Eat From Budget to Luxury

Valletta offers a myriad of dining options, from budget-friendly bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants. Here are some places to indulge in Valletta’s culinary scene:

Budget:

1. Pasta Cafe: This cozy cafe offers a range of affordable pasta dishes and salads.
2. Nenu The Artisan Baker: Known for its traditional Maltese bread, this bakery also offers a range of affordable Maltese dishes.
3. The Submarine: This popular sandwich shop offers a wide range of fillings at budget-friendly prices.

Luxury:

1. Noni: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a menu that reflects Malta’s culinary heritage.
2. Under Grain: Located in the heart of Valletta, this restaurant offers a luxury dining experience in an elegant setting.
3. Guze Bistro: This upscale restaurant is housed in a 16th-century Valletta townhouse and offers a menu of Maltese and Mediterranean dishes.

Whether you’re a foodie on a budget or a gourmet connoisseur, Valletta offers a dazzling array of culinary delights.

A Cinematic Journey: A Detailed Itinerary

Experience the cinematic charm of Valletta with a five-day itinerary, exploring famous filming locations and immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture and history.

Day 1: Start your tour at Fort Ricasoli, the filming location for “Gladiator.” Visit Saint Dominic’s Convent, the “Game of Thrones” Red Keep.

Day 2: Explore Saint John’s Co-Cathedral, featured in “Das Boot.” End the day at the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which offers stunning views of the Grand Harbour.

Day 3: Visit Valletta’s Grand Harbour, featured in “World War Z” and “Murder on the Orient Express.” In the evening, enjoy a walk through the city’s historic streets, as featured in “Assassin’s Creed.”

Day 4: Venture outside the city to Mdina, Malta’s old capital, also known as King’s Landing in “Game of Thrones.”

Day 5: Visit the National Museum of Archaeology and the National War Museum, both of which have been featured in various films and documentaries.

This itinerary not only allows you to explore Valletta’s famous filming locations but also provides an immersive experience of the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Beyond its cinematic allure, Valletta also harbors a wealth of myths and legends. From the haunting tales of the Grey Lady of the Grandmaster’s Palace to the mysterious cryptid known as the Maltese Tiger, these stories add an intriguing layer of mystery to the city’s rich history.

Hidden Gems in Valletta

While Valletta’s iconic landmarks are popular tourist attractions, the city also boasts many lesser-known locales worth exploring:

1. The Saluting Battery: This historic artillery battery offers stunning views of the Grand Harbour and is a must-see for history buffs.
2. The Lascaris War Rooms: These underground bunkers served as the Allies’ headquarters during World War II and offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s wartime history.
3. The Malta Experience: This audio-visual show offers a unique overview of Malta’s history, making it a hidden gem for first-time visitors.

These off-the-beaten-path attractions offer a unique perspective on Valletta’s history and culture, away from the usual tourist crowds.

Preparing for Your Trip: What to Pack

When packing for your cinematic journey through Valletta, it’s essential to consider the city’s climate and your planned activities. Here are some packing essentials:

1. Comfortable footwear: Valletta’s historic streets are often cobbled, making comfortable shoes a must.
2. Versatile clothing: Due to Valletta’s Mediterranean climate, it’s advisable to pack layers that you can add or remove as needed. Include a mix of casual and smart outfits.
3. Camera: To capture your own cinematic memories of Valletta.
4. Travel guide and map: To help you navigate the city and find those hidden gems.
5. Sun protection: Don’t forget your sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against the Mediterranean sun.

With these packing tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your cinematic journey through Valletta.

Getting Around Valletta: Transportation Tips

Getting around Valletta is relatively easy, thanks to the city’s compact size and efficient public transportation system. Here are some transportation tips:

Walking: Due to its small size, most of Valletta’s attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Public Buses: Malta’s public bus system is efficient and affordable, making it a good option for travel within Valletta and to other parts of the island.

Taxi and Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Bolt are widely available in Valletta.

Ferry: Regular ferry services operate between Valletta and the Three Cities, offering a scenic way to travel.

With these options, navigating Valletta and exploring its cinematic locations is a breeze.

Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Valletta

Before embarking on your trip to Valletta, it’s essential to ensure you have the necessary travel documents:

1. Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.
2. Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Malta. Check the Maltese Embassy or Consulate website in your country for requirements.
3. Travel Insurance: It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
4. International Driving Permit: If you plan to rent a car, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required, along with your valid driver’s license.

Having these documents in order ensures a smooth journey to the heart of cinematic Valletta.

Conclusion: Embark on Your Cinematic Journey through Valletta

From its historic landmarks to its picturesque streets, Valletta offers a cinematic experience like no other. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a TV series fanatic, a bookworm, or simply a traveler in search of unique experiences, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of Valletta’s cinematic landscape. So embark on a journey through the city’s famous films, TV shows, and books, and discover the hidden gems that make Valletta a filmmaker’s dream. Safe travels!