Wied Għollieqa has long been a symbol of Malta’s natural and cultural heritage, and recent efforts to restore its historic rubble walls are breathing new life into this unique valley.

A collapsed section of wall, damaged after heavy rains, has been expertly rebuilt under the guidance of Simon Buttigieg; a history teacher and one of Malta’s pioneering conservationists since the early 1990s.

For Simon Buttigieg, the project is deeply personal. Over three decades ago, he helped shape Wied Għollieqa’s upper terraces, laying stones and planting trees with a vision of ecological resilience and stewardship.

Returning to the site, he once again set stone upon stone, continuing the same mission he began more than 30 years ago. His knowledge of traditional wall-building techniques ensures that restoration is not only practical but also faithful to Malta’s landscape traditions.

The completion of this latest section marks an important milestone in safeguarding Wied Għollieqa’s character. Rubble walls are vital features of Malta’s environment, preventing soil erosion, supporting biodiversity, and preserving a centuries-old rural aesthetic.

Now, the project is opening its doors to the community. Volunteers are invited to join ‘Volunteer Saturdays,’ where they can learn hands-on skills, contribute to heritage conservation, and work alongside Simon Buttigieg himself.

It’s a chance to meet like-minded people, strengthen Malta’s environmental resilience, and leave a lasting mark on one of the island’s treasured valleys.

Together, stone by stone, Wied Għollieqa’s story continues to be written.