Karfi, Archaeological site atop Dikti Mountains, Greece

Karfi is an archaeological site high in the Dikti Mountains of eastern Crete, at about 1,100 meters above sea level, overlooking the northern entrance to the Lasithi Plateau. Its peak is marked by a bifurcated limestone outcropping resembling a crescent horn altar. Excavated remains include single-story houses, paved streets, a shrine with an altar, and two tholos-tomb cemeteries nearby.

The settlement took shape after the collapse of Minoan palace civilization around 1200 BCE, when people moved to this high ground to shelter from incoming Dorian groups. It remained occupied until around 725 BCE, when the community eventually abandoned the harsh peak.

Clay figurines found at the site, showing goddesses with raised arms, are now among the most recognized objects at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Seeing them in person gives a direct sense of how people living in this remote mountain settlement expressed their beliefs.

The site is reachable on foot from Kera or Lagavolia village along a dirt path that also forms part of the E4 European hiking trail. The ground is steep and fully exposed, so firm footwear and enough water are necessary before setting out.

The limestone knob that gives Karfi its name looks like a nail especially from the north. The site's ancient name is unknown. Excavations in 1937 and 1939 by J. D. S. Pendlebury and the British School at Athens uncovered only about a third of the settlement, according to Swindale.