Where was Fiddler on the Roof filmed?

Yente (Molly Picon), the matchmaker of the village, comes with tantalizing news for Golde (Norma Crane). The affluent butcher and widower, Lazar Wolf (Paul Mann), has expressed his desire to marry their oldest daughter, Tzeitel (Rosalind Harris). However, Tevye (Topol), a poor Jewish milkman, requires persuasion to meet Lazar and set up the marriage. The middle daughters, Hodel (Michele Marsh) and Chava (Neva Small) are excited about their mother's conversation with Yente, but Tzeitel, wise beyond her years, cautions them not to be too eager. Like many others in the film, this iconic scene was shot in the picturesque village of Lekenik, Croatia. As a crucial filming location, Lekenik doubled as the village of Anatevka. Fiddler on the Roof production in Lekenik was led by the esteemed Croatian film producer Branko Lustig, best known for his work on Schindler’s List. The village of Lekenik has remarkably preserved its appearance over the past 40 years. Apart from some new faces, the landscape and the authentic rural architecture remain precisely as they were in 1971. For those wishing to visit this timeless location, Lekenik is easily accessible from Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. A short drive or bus ride will take visitors to the village, allowing them to step back in time and immerse themselves in the unchanged charm of the location where this iconic scene took place.

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An iconic scene unfolds when Tevye's (Topol) horse becomes lame, leaving him to pull the milk cart himself. In the memorable song, "If I Were a Rich Man," he addresses God, pondering about life as a wealthy man. Amidst this, a student from Kyiv named Perchik (Paul Michael Glaser) arrives in town and overhears their conversation. He criticizes them for only discussing and not implementing any changes. Despite the men labeling Perchik a radical, Tevye finds him appealing. He invites Perchik to join them for the Sabbath meal and proposes a barter deal - a place to stay and meals in return for tutoring his two youngest daughters. Not only was 'Fiddler on the Roof' filmed in Croatia, but parts were also filmed in the United Kingdom. Pinewood Studios, located in Iver Heath in Buckinghamshire, was the backdrop for a few scenes. Please note that Pinewood Studios is not open to the general public. Visitors must be pre-authorized to enter the studios. You can drive to Pinewood Studios or take a train from London. The closest train station is Gerrards Cross. From there, it's a short taxi ride to the studios.

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Near the river, Hodel (Michele Marsh) is busily washing laundry. Perchik (Paul Michael Glaser) seizes the opportunity to impart knowledge to Tevye's (Chaim Topol) two youngest daughters in this serene setting. Following this, an enlightening conversation ensues between Perchik and Hodel, discussing the dynamics of modern relationships. Perchik shares with Hodel the freedoms couples enjoy in the city, such as holding hands and expressing affection openly without needing a matchmaker's intervention. Then, Perchik demonstrates some dance moves to her, sparking a palpable romantic tension between the two. This idyllic riverside scene was filmed along the Kupa River in Mala Gorica, a picturesque village located in Croatia. The film extensively showcased this small village's stunning landscapes, quaint places, and the local people. If you are intrigued and wish to explore this village further, it's accessible and offers a rich cultural experience. To get to this location, one must first travel to Zagreb (Croatia’s capital city), then take a bus or car to Mala Gorica. Alternatively, visitors can also fly into Zagreb Airport before taking public transport or arranging for private transfer services to get them there.

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In a mesmerizing moment, a snow-covered town sets the stage for Perchik's (Paul Michael Glaser) impassioned speech to the townspeople. However, his activism led to his arrest during a protest in Kyiv, ultimately resulting in his exile to the vast expanse of Siberia. Undeterred by the harsh conditions, Hodel (Michele Marsh) exhibits her unwavering love for Perchik and resolves to join him in Siberia. This compelling sequence was filmed in Zagreb's Upper Town (Gornji Grad), specifically in front of the VI. Gymnasium and the Church of St. Catherine. This location set the stage for the revolutionary scenes. Gornji Grad, the historic district of Croatia's capital city, comprises the ancient hilltop settlements of Kaptol and Gradec. Its cobblestone streets, medieval squares, and vibrant café culture make it one of Zagreb's most enchanting areas. To reach your destination, it is recommended to take a flight to Zagreb. You can access Gornji Grad using a funicular ride from Ilica Street, located in the heart of the city center. Alternatively, you can walk up the hill from Ban Jelačić Square.

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