Arthur Evans: The British archaeologist who discovered the Palace of Knossos

·

One of the greatest discoveries made in the modern world was pioneered by none other than British archaeologist, Arthur Evans, who paved the way for the analysis of ancient Minoan culture.

The eminent British archaeologist was one of the pioneers in the study of the Aegean civilisations of the Bronze Age, with his major work being the discovery of the Palace of Knossos in Crete.

Arthur Evans at the Palace of Knossos. Photo: British Archaeology at the Ashmolean Museum.

Born on July 8, 1851 in Nas Mills, East England, Arthur was the son of the archaeologist John Evans (1823-1908). He studied archaeology at Oxford and soon turned to monetary archaeology.

His interest in coins and seals led him to Crete for the first time in 1894. He later returned and from 1899 to 1934, starting with his own money, he brought to light the ruins of Knossos, which covered an area of ​​17 square meters. 

Arthur helped make the world aware of the Cretan culture of the Bronze Age, which he named Minoan, correlating the complex plan of the Palace of Knossos with the labyrinth.

The Palace of Knossos today. Photo: viator.com.

After researching layers under the palace and carefully comparing its findings with Egyptian excavations, Arthur created a chronological system that formed the first systematic basis for dating prehistoric times in Europe.

His interpretations, as is natural in the work of pioneers, contained many weaknesses and exaggerations but in general, his work sealed the development of knowledge of prehistoric civilisations in Greece. 

From 1909, he was an Associate Professor of Prehistoric Archaeology at the University of Oxford. In 1911, for his services to archaeology, he was knighted by King George and was awarded the title of “Sir.”

Arthur died on July 11, 1941, in Oxford, at the age of 90.

Source: San Simera.

greek film festival sydney new

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Greek Orthodox Community of NSW hosts Deputy Foreign Minister Ioannis Loverdos

The GOCNSW had the honour of hosting the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic, His Excellency Ioannis-Michail Loverdos.

Betty Exintaris OAM takes helm of Greek Elderly Federation

Renowned community leader Betty Exintaris OAM has been elected president of the Federation of Greek Elderly Citizens Clubs of Victoria.

Pantazopoulos turns down overseas offers to chase redemption with Western Sydney Wanderers

Western Sydney Wanderers defender Anthony Pantazopoulos says he rejected several overseas opportunities to stay in Sydney.

Shark app downloads surge after fatal attack on surfer Mercury Psillakis

Downloads of the NSW SharkSmart app have surged following the fatal shark attack on surfer Mercury Psillakis at Dee Why Beach last month.

Honorary Doctor of Business awarded to Arthur Sinodinos AO

The Hon Arthur Sinodinos AO, former Ambassador to the US and Senator for NSW, was yesterday admitted to the degree of Doctor of Business. 

You May Also Like

Cyprus gives posthumous award to the late Cypriot Australian Georgia Alexandrou

The late Cypriot Australian leader Georgia Alexandrou received a posthumous award on Wednesday, July 31 from the government of Cyprus.

Football Australia supports over 3,000 Afghan refugees by creating positions within community clubs

The peak body of football in the nation has thrown its full support towards all those fleeing from the Taliban

Irene Papas and Vangelis Papathanassiou honoured at the Oscars 2023

Legendary Greek actress Irene Papas and Oscar-winning composer Vangelis Papathanassiou were commemorated at the Oscars on Sunday night.