Back in the day, one of the most common forms of entertainment was heading to the cinema – or the “talkies” as they called them then. Malta had a number of big screens scattered across the islands, one of which was the Metropole in Birkirkara. Like most other cinemas on the islands, the Metropole no longer exists, so we're taking a look back on its time as one of the go-to spots in Birkirkara.

The Metropole, formerly located in Bishop Labini Street was one of the five cinemas previously found in the locality. According to a website run by the former business owner’s granddaughter, the cinema was established in 1954 and “stood as the only cinema with a panoramic screen and sliding roof.” Cool beans!

The theatre had a seating capacity of 800 people and was split into two levels. It was also considered as one of a kind due to its retractable roof and ceiling. Imagine this: cinema under the stars in summer – glorious!

Unfortunately, like most Maltese cinemas, this one’s journey came to an end. “The Metropole closed down in 1979 and has since then been gutted from the inside, now serving as an electrical and plumbing warehouse.”

Do you remember the Metropole cinema in its heyday? 

Carmelo Gauci via Old Cinemas in Malta / Facebook