• Location near Kato Archanes
• ActivitiesHiking, mountain biking
• Archaeological SignificanceLargest prehistoric cemetery in the Aegean (2400 B.C. - 2200 B.C.)
• FindingsQueen’s sarcophagus, sacrificial remains, priceless jewelry

The artificial forest of Fourni, a magical spot located near the most important archaeological site in Archanes, is a unique combination of nature and cultural heritage. Perched on a green hill filled with pines and cypress trees, near Kato Archanes, it offers ideal trails for hiking and mountain biking. The forest seamlessly blends natural beauty with the historical significance of the area, making it a perfect destination for exploration.

Visitors can start their walk from Kato Archanes, following the signs, and along the way, they will encounter the impressive Knossos Gorge. The serene atmosphere of the forest provides peace, and visitors can rest at the stone-built theater, where the view stretches as far as the Dia island, a historical island north of Crete.

One of the most important archaeological sites of the island lies at the heart of the forest: the largest prehistoric cemetery of the Aegean, dating from the Pre-Minoan Era (2400 B.C. - 2200 B.C.). Excavations, which began in 1964 and continue to this day, have uncovered tombs and structures of great archaeological value, with the most significant find being the queen’s sarcophagus. In this tomb, sacrificial remains were found, along with priceless jewelry, and evidence of cultural exchanges with the Cyclades, Egypt, and the East.

Findings from the cemetery are exhibited at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion and the Archanes Museum. The variety of architectural types of tombs indicates that the cemetery was in use for over 1,000 years, highlighting the area’s historical importance.

Fourni is open to visitors during the summer months by appointment with the site’s guard. Nature lovers can also explore the nearby Knossos Gorge.