Rabat – Construction has started on the set of Gladiator 2 in the Moroccan city of Ouarzazate, including a giant arena that will feature the much-anticipated sequel’s gladiator combats.
British tabloid newspaper The Daily Mail revealed photos of the ongoing construction work, including a round wooden structure built into the dunes, similar to the arena from Gladiator 1.
Filming is set to begin in May across several locations in the city of Ouarzazate, known as the gateway to the Sahara Desert. “Locations have been chosen in the Moroccan city of Ouarzazate, which is building a reputation as a favorite site for movie makers due to its dramatic landscapes,” The Sun reported in January.
Irish actors Paul Mescal and Barry Keoghan, as well as American star Denzel Washington, will reportedly feature in the Roman-style epic sequel, according to The Daily Mail. However, their roles have not been specified yet.
Construction work at Gladiator set in Ouarzazate. Credit: The Daily Mail
Directed by Ridley Scott, the original Gladiator movie was released in 2000. It was met with great success and won several awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Russell Crowe.
Since then, fans have been eagerly waiting for Ridley Scott to revisit the Gladiator universe and work on a sequel.
Gladiator’s original film was also shot in Ouarzazate, which is home to unique and diverse landscapes, including the desert, mountains, and ancient architecture, making it a popular destination for filmmakers.
Read also: Out of a Movie: Travel Tips for Morocco’s ‘Film Capital’ Ouarzazate
Many famous films and TV series have been filmed in the Moroccan city, including Lawrence of Arabia, Game of Thrones, and The Mummy, among others. For this reason, Ouarzazate has been nicknamed the “Moroccan Hollywood.”
The southern city is also home to several filming studios, including Atlas Studios, one of the largest in the world.
In addition to its popularity as a filming destination, Ouarzazate is also a key tourist destination for travelers seeking adventure and a unique travel experience. Visitors can explore the city’s beautiful Kasbas or its surrounding natural attractions.
