Atlas Studios | Ouarzazate

Atlas Studios is located in Ouarzazate, Morocco, and is known for being the largest film studio in the world by land area. It covers an expansive area of over 31,000 square meters. This film studio has become famous not just for its size but also for its role in the global film industry, particularly in Hollywood productions.

History and Origins

Established in 1983: The studio was founded by Moroccan businessman Mohamed Belghmi. It was strategically built in Ouarzazate due to the region's natural sunlight, arid desert climate, and breathtaking landscapes that can mimic various locations across the globe, such as ancient Egypt, the Middle East, and Asia.

Purpose: The main idea behind the creation of Atlas Studios was to provide a large, versatile space for filmmakers. Ouarzazate itself, known as the "Gateway to the Sahara," is surrounded by dramatic natural landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and valleys, which made it an ideal location for filming historical and epic movies.

Cinematic Legacy

Atlas Studios has played a crucial role in the filming of numerous iconic films and TV shows. Some of the major productions filmed here include:

"Lawrence of Arabia" (1962): One of the most famous historical epics, set in the desert, which used the studio’s vast sets.

"Gladiator" (2000): This epic film, which won multiple Academy Awards, used Atlas Studios' desert landscapes to recreate ancient Rome.

"The Mummy" (1999): A blockbuster film that featured dramatic desert sequences, shot in Atlas Studios.

"Game of Thrones": Parts of this globally popular series were filmed in Morocco, including in Ouarzazate, and specifically in the Atlas Studios.

"The Jewel of the Nile" (1985): A sequel to the movie Romancing the Stone filmed here.

"The Living Daylights" (1987): A James Bond film also used the studio’s desert sets.

Due to these high-profile films, Ouarzazate has become known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” and Atlas Studios plays a central role in this reputation.

Set Highlights

Atlas Studios is not just a studio but a fully-fledged outdoor movie set. The studio contains a variety of monumental sets designed to simulate different cultures and time periods, including:

Egyptian Temples: Large-scale replicas of ancient Egyptian architecture that have been used in many productions.

Roman Arenas: Set pieces designed to recreate the grandiose arenas of ancient Rome, often featured in epic films.

Tibetan Monasteries: For films that require a Buddhist or Himalayan backdrop.

Medieval Fortresses: These have appeared in many films depicting medieval Europe or fantasy kingdoms.

Traditional Moroccan Kasbahs: Often used for films needing authentic North African settings, these sets reflect the unique architectural style of the region.

These diverse sets, many of which have been left intact after being used in films, allow visitors to walk through and explore various periods and cultures, making it a cinematic museum of sorts.

Visitor Experience

For those traveling to Atlas Studios, it offers an immersive experience of Hollywood-style filmmaking in the heart of Morocco. Here's what you can expect when you visit:

Guided Tours: Visitors are offered the opportunity to take guided tours through the film sets. These tours are informative, detailing the history of the studio, the films shot there, and how some of the elaborate sets were created.

Cinematic Tour: You can walk through sets used in famous movies, like the "Lawrence of Arabia" desert scenes or the Gladiator arenas. The studio often has props, costumes, and other movie memorabilia on display.

Photo Opportunities: The vast outdoor sets provide excellent opportunities for photography. The dramatic architecture of the sets and the surrounding desert landscape make for stunning pictures.

Film Exhibits: Some of the original movie props, costumes, and set designs are on display, which gives visitors a glimpse into the work behind the scenes.

On-Site Café: Some visits may include time to relax and enjoy refreshments in a café nearby, making the trip even more enjoyable.

Practical Information

Location: Atlas Studios is located 5 kilometers west of Ouarzazate, Morocco. It is easily accessible from the city, and many visitors combine a trip to the studio with a tour of nearby attractions such as Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Opening Hours: The studio is usually open daily, but the hours may vary, especially during the film season. It's best to check in advance or with your hotel for specific timings.

Admission Fee: An entrance fee is typically charged for visitors, though the exact cost can vary. It is worth noting that the fee usually includes a guided tour, which adds great value to the experience.

Accessibility: The studio is well-equipped to accommodate tourists, with guided tours available in multiple languages. However, it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially in the summer months when temperatures in the desert can soar.

Cultural and Tourism Significance

Economic Impact: The success of Atlas Studios has brought global attention to Ouarzazate and the surrounding region. It has boosted tourism and provided a source of income for the local economy, with many people employed as part of the studio’s operations, including tour guides, set builders, and artisans.

Hollywood in the Desert: Thanks to Atlas Studios, Ouarzazate and its surrounding area have developed a distinct identity in the world of cinema. The studio has played an integral part in making Morocco one of the top global film destinations.

Film Industry Education: For aspiring filmmakers and film students, visiting Atlas Studios provides a rare opportunity to explore one of the most significant film studios in the world. It is a living testament to film production techniques, set design, and the magic of cinema.

Conclusion

Atlas Studios is more than just a film studio. It is a historical site, a tourist attraction, and a gateway into the world of film for anyone interested in the art of filmmaking. Whether you're a fan of the movies filmed there or simply appreciate the artistry of set design and architecture, a visit to Atlas Studios is an unforgettable experience that brings the magic of cinema to life against the stunning backdrop of Morocco’s desert landscape.