fyrirhafnar
Fyrirhafnar is a term used in Icelandic coastal archaeology to describe early harbor-related facilities and sites that predate the construction of formal harbors in a given region. The concept covers natural anchorage points, rudimentary quays, sheltered bays, and temporary docks that supported maritime activity before more durable harbor infrastructure existed.
Etymology and usage: The word is formed from fyrir- meaning "before" or "in front of" and hafn,
Archaeological significance: Sites identified as fyrirhafnar are usually characterized by shallow water features, remnants of timber
Limitations: The term is not widely standardized and appears mainly in specialized studies. Because evidence is
See also: harbor archaeology, pre-harbor sites, Icelandic toponymy.