Kiivit

Kiivit is a type of traditional Estonian grains storage. The term "kiivit" refers to the actual storage building, typically constructed in a rural area. Kiivit were commonly used in Estonia for storing grains, particularly rye and barley, which were staples in the Estonian diet.

The kiivit structure was typically built using local materials, such as wood and stone, and reused materials, like wooden planks and thatch. The buildings were designed to be simple, yet functional, offering protection from the elements and rodents. Kiivit usually featured a flat roof, allowing easy access to the stored grains.

Kiivit played a significant role in maintaining food storage for rural communities in Estonia. Throughout history, they were integral in aiding agricultural-based economies by safeguarding excess produce for the seasons. The scarcity of space in the buildings triggered development. Experience and needs resulted in multi-functional kiivits, capable of not only housing grains.

Kiivit's purpose and functionality varied over the centuries, ultimately reducing the importance of their structural importance. Urbanization led to surplus food transportation options and nearby cities had multiple storage for handling the frequent trade between members countless people. This modified the demand for adequate sheltering of the contents seasonally, although the subject of food shortages may thus calling a point.