Malta Film Studios

Hollywood on the Mediterranean

Mediterranean Film Studios (MFS) in Kalkara is one of the oldest and best-known film studios in Europe. Founded in 1964, it is famous for two huge filming tanks, the larger measuring 100 x 60 metres, the biggest of its kind in Europe. The second, smaller tank is built inside the studio building (interior tank).

The filmography

Hundreds of productions have passed through the studio: "Troy" (2004), "Captain Phillips" (2013, with Tom Hanks), "Assassin's Creed" (2016), "Game of Thrones" (sea scenes), "13 Hours" (2016), Spielberg's "Munich" (2005), and many more. The outdoor tank can be filled with seawater from the Grand Harbour, allowing realistic naval battle scenes with the real sea in the background.

The horizon line

MFS's key advantage is the horizon line: the tank sits at sea level, with the open Mediterranean stretching beyond. The camera cannot see the tank's edges, creating an illusion of open ocean. This effect is nearly impossible to replicate digitally to the same quality.

Practical tip: The studio is not open to tourists (active film sets). You can see it from the Kalkara waterfront or the road to Fort Ricasoli. The Malta Film Commission occasionally organises open days.