Archaeological discovery at Erimi-Laonin tou Porakou reveals new details of central settlement building

Between July 27 and August 21, 2026, an Italian archaeological mission conducted excavations at the Erimi-Laonin tou Porakou settlement. The research was led by Professor Luca Bombardieri of the University of Siena, in collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Cypriot Department of Antiquities.

Investigations focused on the site's hilltop, uncovering a large central building covering approximately 250 square metres. The structure features six rooms across its east and west wings, a central courtyard, and architectural evidence suggesting the existence of a second storey. Archaeologists noted that the building was constructed over earlier structures, highlighting successive phases of the settlement’s use. Significant finds include three Middle Bronze Age chamber tombs and carvings on a room's threshold identified as an ancient senet-type board game.

This year's excavation season has officially concluded. The findings contribute significantly to understanding the structural evolution and daily life of the ancient settlement, with researchers continuing to analyze the data gathered during the summer period.