There are many unresolved queries regarding the origins and significance of the Maltese corbelled huts, frequently referred to locally as il-girna (plural: giren), dispersed across the Maltese islands. These distinctive dry-stone buildings cleave the parched soil and are now an emblem of the Maltese landscape. Incidentally, Giren are more prominent in the island’s western and northwest regions.  

Despite their apparent simplicity, Maltese giren are captivating, particularly in the skilful placement of relatively large stones. Many giren were built with surface limestone rocks as they are mostly found in parts of western and northwest Malta. The girna can be characterised by a horizontal slab, an arched structure, or a triangular form. They assume round, square, rectangular, or occasionally oval forms on the outside. Rocks, stone fragments, sand, lime, and occasionally ground ceramics cover the convex roof. It shares traits with other Mediterranean regional vernacular constructions, such as the nuraghe of Sardinia, the Trulli of Apulia, the bunje of the former Yugoslavia, the borie of France, and other different types of huts found in Libya. 

A girna’s dimensions aren’t set in stone; instead, they change according to the needs of the owner and the builder’s abilities. The largest square giren can be found at Ix-Xagħra Il-Ħamra, near Manikata, while the circular ones are between the Red Tower and Ċirkewwa. There was a considerable concentration of giren between Paradise Bay and the Red Tower, and they were frequently perched on rocky outcrops. 

Interestingly, Giren were initially employed as dwellings by some Maltese people, but their primary function was to serve the requirements of farmers, herdsmen, and animals. These huts offered refuge from the scorching sun, sudden downpours, and lengthy fieldwork sessions. Tools and Food such as potatoes and carob were kept inside on the roof along with other items.   

As a result of their current state of disrepair or decline, many giren’s future as a component of Malta’s architectural legacy needs to be revised. Some giren have perished from neglect, but others are still standing and serve primarily for storage. A few new giren were built in the early 21st century, and one was also built as part of a renovation in the Ta’ Blankas olive grove in Xewkija.