Popeye Village (Sweethaven) — Mellieħa

What is Popeye Village?

Popeye Village is a cluster of brightly painted, deliberately rickety wooden buildings set around a small bay. It was constructed as the fictional town of Sweethaven for a Hollywood musical, and rather than being demolished afterwards it was preserved and turned into a tourist attraction and fun park.

Where is Popeye Village?

The village stands at Anchor Bay, a sheltered cove on the north-west coast near Mellieħa.

History of Popeye Village

The set was built in 1979–1980 for the live-action musical Popeye, directed by Robert Altman and starring Robin Williams in his first leading film role. A large team of craftsmen constructed an entire wooden village at Anchor Bay using imported timber and materials. After filming, the distinctive set was kept and gradually developed into a visitor attraction, with exhibitions about the film, family entertainment and boat trips around the bay.

What to see at Popeye Village

• The colourful wooden buildings of Sweethaven.
• Exhibitions and props relating to the 1980 film.
• Family shows, activities and seasonal entertainment.
• The pretty setting of Anchor Bay, popular for photos and swimming nearby.

Significance

Popeye Village is an unusual survival — a complete film set turned into a long-running attraction — and a reminder of Malta's role as a filming location. Its cheerful, photogenic buildings make it a favourite with families and film fans.

Visiting Popeye Village

The village operates as a ticketed family attraction with seasonal opening hours, shows and activities. Programmes and prices change through the year, so check before visiting, especially if travelling for particular shows.