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Girna: A Window into Malta's Rural Past

Explore Malta's traditional Girna: Corbelled stone huts offering a glimpse into the island's rural heritage and architectural ingenuity.

The Girna, a traditional corbelled hut found in Malta's rural areas, showcases the island's unique architectural heritage. These dry-stone structures, with their distinctive dome-shaped roofs, were once essential shelters for farmers, herdsmen, and their livestock. Today, they stand as a reminder of Malta's agrarian roots and sustainable practices.

A brief summary to Girna - traditional corbelled hut found in rural areas in parts of Malta.

  • WC8M+3PF, Naxxar, MT

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the rural surroundings of the Girna.
  • Bring water, especially during the hot summer months, as there are no facilities nearby.
  • Take your time to appreciate the scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere of the Maltese countryside.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Girna is located in a rural area of Naxxar. From the Naxxar Parish Church, head west on Triq il-Kbira, then turn left onto Triq San Pawl. Continue onto Triq Grognet de Vassé. The Girna will be on your right, amidst agricultural land. Be prepared for uneven terrain.

  • Public Transport

    From Valletta, take bus line 43 towards Naxxar. Get off at the 'Naxxar' bus stop. From there, follow the walking directions. A single bus fare costs €1.50.

  • Taxi

    From the Malta International Airport, a taxi to the Girna in Naxxar will cost approximately €20-€25 and take around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Ask the driver to take you to Triq Grognet de Vassé in Naxxar.

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Discover more about Girna - traditional corbelled hut found in rural areas in parts of Malta.

The Girna (plural: Giren) is a traditional corbelled hut found in the rural areas of Malta, particularly in the western and northwestern parts of the island. These unique structures are a testament to Malta's historical architecture and agricultural heritage. Giren are constructed from undressed dry stone, typically coralline limestone, with walls around 90 cm thick. The walls consist of two skins of stone with a rubble infill in between. These huts, dating back centuries, were primarily used by farmers and herdsmen as shelters for tools, hay, livestock, and sometimes even as temporary dwellings. The design reflects local architectural adaptations to the environment, emphasizing durability and functionality. The internal ceiling is dome-shaped, while the external form can be circular, square, rectangular, or oval. The roof is covered with fragments of stone, sand, lime, and occasionally ground pottery. While some giren have been lost to neglect, many still exist, serving mainly for storage. They offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Malta, connecting visitors to the island's cultural roots. Exploring the rural landscapes surrounding the Girna provides a tranquil experience, with scenic views of terraced fields and Mediterranean vegetation.

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