Fournou Korifi, Archaeological site in Ierapetra Municipality, Greece
Fournou Korifi is an archaeological site featuring about 90 compact rooms densely arranged on a hilltop and connected by narrow passages and corridors. Two fortified entrances with walls and a bastion provide access to living spaces, storage areas, and workshops distributed throughout the settlement.
The site dates from the Early Minoan period around 2600-2300 BC and was excavated by Peter Warren in 1967, who uncovered structures and artifacts from this ancient era.
The residents grew cereals, olives, and grapes while producing pottery, textiles, and olive oil in dedicated workshops throughout the settlement. These daily activities shaped how the buildings were arranged and used across the hilltop.
The hilltop offers broad views across the Libyan Sea, so bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water when exploring the site. Uneven terrain and narrow passages require careful footing, especially where the slope becomes steep.
A sanctuary on the southwestern edge of the settlement yielded the Goddess of Myrtos statue, now on display at the Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos. This small artwork is among the most notable objects discovered at this location.
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