Where was The Rat Patrol filmed?
1966
City Locations
Almeria, Andalucía (Spain); Arizona, Nevada, California (USA)
Location Types
Museum, Film Studio, Hotel
Location Styles
Beachfront, Dated/’50s-’60s-’70s, Mediterranean, Spanish
About The Rat Patrol
Journey back in time with The Rat Patrol series, an American action-adventure television spectacle aired on ABC from 1966 to 1968. The series primarily revolves around the daring exploits of four Allied soldiers during World War II. The group, which consists of three Americans and one British soldier, is part of a long-range desert patrol unit in the North African campaign.
The series' plot draws inspiration from David Stirling's British Special Air Service and is loosely based on it. The SAS utilized modified Jeeps equipped with machine guns to navigate through the treacherous desert terrain, while Popski's Private Army also played a role in influencing the storyline.
The Rat Patrol's mission is to engage, disrupt, and unleash chaos on Field Marshal Rommel's renowned Afrika Korps. This series vividly portrays the heroic exploits and intense conflicts that the Rat Patrol faces as they navigate treacherous desert terrain, constantly matching wits with the formidable German forces.
Despite its historical inconsistencies, The Rat Patrol achieved successful ratings when military shows were declining due to public disaffection with the Vietnam War. While the show may not have received specific accolades, it remains a captivating masterpiece in the annals of television history. The Rat Patrol offers viewers a cinematic journey into the trials and triumphs of war, shedding light on the unsung heroes of World War II.
The Rat Patrol Locations
The Rat Patrol series takes its audience on a thrilling journey into the heart of World War II, showcasing a variety of striking locations that serve as the backdrop for its gripping narrative. The arid desert and unique Ramblas of Almería, Spain, offering a stark and authentic setting that captures the raw essence of the North African campaign, provided the backdrops for the initial 17 episodes of the first season. Notable landmarks, such as the Alcazaba, an ancient Moorish fortress, and the lighthouse at Cabo de Gata, further enrich the scenic tapestry of the show.
Following the initial episodes, production moved to the United States for the remainder of the first season and throughout the second season. One memorable location used during this period was the Furst Castle in Shadow Hills, California. The castle's distinctive dome, entrance structure, and lion statues are unmistakable features that add depth to the series.
Venturing to the filming locations of The Rat Patrol would undoubtedly be a rewarding experience for enthusiasts of the series. It presents a unique opportunity to trace the paths of the show's characters and immerse oneself in locations steeped in history and natural beauty. Whether it's the raw, untouched terrain of Almería or the architectural grandeur of Furst Castle, these sites are bound to mesmerize anyone with a passion for cinematic history or World War II.
Fun Facts:
In the opening scene, as jeeps soar over a dune, the shot presents an inverted mirror image from the first episode's premiere. Notably, the drivers are portrayed on the right side of the jeep.
The German Officers' Club scene in The Rat Patrol
Conjunto Monumental de la Alcazaba de Almería, C. Almanzor, s/n, 04002 Almería, Spain
The Rat Patrol, an elite group of British and American soldiers, is tasked with liberating Allied POWs held captive in the town. Their mission requires them to infiltrate the German Officers' Club and persuade a key contact, who subsequently becomes a romantic interest for Hitch, to convince the local fishermen to help ferry the prisoners to safety.
Alcazaba, an ancient Moorish fortress dating back to AD 995, served as the setting for this pivotal scene. The fortress, imposing and steeped in history, overlooks the port at Almería, making it a fitting location for filming the episode "The Last Harbor Raid." Alcazaba's grandeur and strategic importance serve as a metaphor for the high-stakes mission undertaken by the Rat Patrol. Alcazaba has also been a famous filming location for other iconic films like Never Say Never Again, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, and more recently, Wonder Woman 1984.
To visit this historic site, you can travel to Almería, Spain. The city is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Alcazaba is located at the top of a hill in the old part of the city. Visitors can reach the fortress by a short uphill walk from the city center. It's recommended to take a guided tour to appreciate this ancient structure's history and architectural beauty.
French leader at the lighthouse scene in The Rat Patrol
Faro de Cabo de Gata, Parque Natural Cabo de Gata-Nijar, s/n, 04150 San José, Almería, Spain
In a significant episode titled "The Lighthouse Raid," the team embarks on a challenging mission. Their objective is to rescue a leader of the French resistance from German territory and safely transport him to an awaiting Allied ship. After they successfully free him from the grip of the Gestapo, they transport him to a seemingly safe lighthouse overseen by a Frenchman sympathetic to the Allies. However, as the plot unfolds, this supposed sanctuary is not to be so safe after all.
The evocative lighthouse scenes were filmed at Faro de Cabo de Gata. This historic location is nestled within one of Spain's most breathtaking natural landscapes, Cabo de Gata. The area is renowned for its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and charming Spanish towns, making it a must-visit destination for adventure lovers and fans of the series alike.
Getting to Cabo de Gata is relatively straightforward. You can fly into Almería International Airport, which is well-connected with major European cities. From there, it's about a 30-minute drive to the lighthouse. Alternatively, regular bus services run from Almería to Cabo de Gata.
The German desert resort scene in The Rat Patrol
Furst Castle, 9983 Sunland Blvd, Shadow Hills, CA 91040, USA
In the thrilling episode 'The Kill at Koorlea Raid,' the team is assigned a dangerous mission. They are ordered to assassinate a notoriously cruel German officer who is on leave. With a sniper in their ranks, they locate the officer at a German desert resort, where he is enjoying his time off surrounded by his wife and children. The presence of his family adds a dangerous layer of complexity to the Rat Patrol's mission.
The scenes at the resort were filmed at the historic Furst Castle in California. Fans of the show might recognize the hairpin turn and the mossy wall to the right, which match the approach road to the castle from the scene where Troy (Christopher George) dispatches the guard. Additionally, the rooftop dome and entrance structure are undeniably distinctive. The lion statues are more clearly visible in the episode.
Furst Castle is now an event venue and is permanently closed. However, if you wish to visit this iconic filming location, it is recommended that you get in touch with the owners to see if a visit can be arranged. Taking the I-5 N route gets you there in about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can also opt for public transportation, which is available with a few transfers.
Troy seeks shelter in an oasis scene in The Rat Patrol
Sony Pictures Studio, 10202 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232, USA
The second season unfolds as Captain Dietrich (Joe Turkel) intercepts a broadcast sent to the Patrol from HQ. He then ambushes them on their way to meet and escort a supply convoy. With the odds stacked against the Rats, Troy (Christopher George) seeks shelter in an oasis. A nearby playing child, frightened by the noise, falls down an old well, prompting both the Allies and the Nazis to halt hostilities temporarily. Together, they work to rescue the child who is still alive.
This riveting scene was shot at the historic Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer studio, now known as Sony Pictures Studios in California. This complex was the original home of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer from 1924 to 1986. During the era of Classic Hollywood cinema, MGM Studios was renowned for producing an impressive 52 films a year, ranging from screen epics such as Mutiny on the Bounty and Ben-Hur to drawing-room dramas like Dinner at Eight, Grand Hotel, and Anna Karenina.
In addition to films, numerous television shows have been broadcast live or taped at the facility, including parts of The Rat Patrol. The lot houses sixteen sound stages and is open to the public for daily studio tours.
To visit this iconic location, you can fly into Los Angeles International Airport and take a cab or ride-share service to the studio located in Culver City. Book a tour in advance to ensure availability. Public transport is also available with several transfers.
Conclusion
The Rat Patrol series is an engaging show that provides a unique and entertaining take on the North African campaign during World War II. Not often seen in syndication today, it nonetheless leaves a lasting impression with its captivating portrayal of a small group of British and American soldiers carrying out daring raids against German forces.
The actors' performances, including Christopher George, Gary Raymond, Eric Braeden, and Lawrence P. Casey, are commendable. Despite the sometimes limited dramatic scenes and writing, the cast delivers a convincing performance that complements the high-octane action sequences. The series also stands out for its authentic depiction of the desert environment, uniforms, vehicles, weapons, and sets, contributing to its overall appeal.
One noteworthy aspect of The Rat Patrol is that it was the first TV show about WWII filmed and shown entirely in color, marking a significant milestone in television history. The initial 17 weeks of filming took place in Almería, Spain, under challenging conditions, with the crew living in a town with non-potable water that reeked of rotting fish and sewage. The production was later moved back to the United States, offering a welcome relief to cast and crew.
Despite minor inconsistencies, such as jeeps magically acquiring new equipment far from allied lines, the series is worth watching for its action-packed theme and excellent camera work. The inventiveness of the plot and the engaging performances make The Rat Patrol a significant contribution to the television industry and a must-watch for fans of war-themed shows.