A kouloura, or kouloures (Greek plural koulourai), is a circular subsurface pit with stone walls found in certain settlements within Ancient Crete, including the Minoan palaces at Phaistos, Knossos, and Malia. According to the stratigraphy, the kouloura were all constructed around MM II (1850–1750 BC).

Etymology

The name kouloura was coined by Arthur Evans during his expedition to Knossos in 1903. He named the pits after kouloura, the round Greek bread, because of the similar shape of the two objects.

Discovery and locations

The first four kouloures were discovered in 1903 at Knossos by Arthur Evans. Subsequently, discovered eight additional kouloura at Malia, and the duo of Luigi Pernier and Doro Levi unearthed four at Phaistos. These pits have always been found within the confines of major sites, including the West Court of Knossos and the Upper Court of Phaistos.

Function

Multiple theories have been put forward regarding the function of these kouloura in Ancient Minoan culture. However, there are only three majorly supported theories.