Nicosia: Archaeologists have uncovered new evidence that the Late Bronze Age settlement at Erimi-Pitharka in Limassol District was a major centre for production and administration, following the completion of the 2026 excavation season, the Department of Antiquities said in a press release on Tuesday.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the excavations, carried out from April 20 to May 22 under the direction of Dr. Laerke Recht of Denmark's Moesgaard Museum, revealed that the site's architectural complex extends further north and east than previously known, with additional rooms and open spaces identified.
Among the most significant discoveries was the largest room excavated so far, containing benches, storage facilities, a stone-lined storage installation and a large stone press weight, indicating industrial or administrative use. Archaeologists also uncovered raw clay together with unfired and low-fired loom weights, providing evidence of ceramic production and textile-related activities.
Large quantities of grape seeds, stone tools and pottery were also recovered, adding to evidence that the settlement was engaged in processing agricultural products, particularly wine production. Other finds included decorated Aegean-type pottery, bronze pins, spindle whorls, loom weights and an almost complete clay bull figurine.
A small number of Ceramic Neolithic pottery sherds were also found, suggesting earlier activity in the area, although the excavated architectural remains date to the Late Cypriot IIC-IIIA period.
According to the Department of Antiquities, the discoveries reinforce the interpretation of Erimi-Pitharka as an important production and processing centre in the Kouris Valley during the Late Bronze Age.
Excavations will continue in future seasons to define the full extent of the complex and its economic functions.