Although the exact dates have been contested, with some noting that the trees were established during the mid-late Medieval period,[18] others have argued that some of these olive trees date back to the 1st century A.D.[19][20][21] The Bidni olive trees which are located just below an area known as Ġebel Għawżara have been protected since 1933,[22] and are also listed in UNESCO's Database of National Cultural Heritage Laws.[23] In 2011, after recognising their historical and landscape value, and in recognition of the fact that "only 20 trees remain from 40 at the beginning of the 20th century",[24] local authorities declared this site as a Tree Protected Area,[25] under the provisions of a regulation made in 2018.[26] In 2021, two local entities were entrusted with the maintenance and protection of one of the olive groves located in Bidnija.[27][28] These highly protected Bidni olive trees, with some measuring between five and eight metres in height, still bear fruit, and are often revered by visitors.[29] Other Bidni olive trees in the vicinity can be found in the private grounds of Qannotta Castle in Wardija.