Mel Gibson’s stark retelling of the final hours of Jesus was filmed in Italy, where the ancient stone towns of Matera and the studios of Rome recreated first-century Jerusalem.
Where was The Passion of the Christ filmed?
The Passion of the Christ was filmed in Italy – Matera and Rome.
Every The Passion of the Christ location, explained
1
Ancient Jerusalem – Matera
The city scenes used the ancient stone town of Matera in Basilicata.
2
The hill town – Craco
Some scenes used the ruined village of Craco nearby.
3
The studios – Rome
Interiors were built at the Cinecittà studios in Rome.
4
First-century Judea
The story dramatises the final hours of Jesus.
Planning a visit
Matera in Italy – the film’s real setting – is a stunning, ancient, accessible town.
The Passion of the Christ Fun Facts
1
Filmed in Italy The film used Matera and the studios of Rome.
2
Ancient Matera The stone town of Matera played ancient Jerusalem.
3
A Mel Gibson film Mel Gibson directed the stark retelling.
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Ancient languages The film was shot in Aramaic and Latin.
5
A box-office hit It became one of the highest-grossing R-rated films.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was The Passion of the Christ filmed?
In Italy – Matera and Rome.
Is it set in Italy?
No – it’s set in ancient Jerusalem, filmed in Italy.
Can you visit the locations?
Yes – Matera is a stunning, accessible town.
Who directed it?
Mel Gibson.
When was it released?
2004.
