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.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

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

Advertisement

Latest News

Victorian government launches Anti-Hate Taskforce after wave of antisemitic attacks

A man has been charged in connection with an alleged arson attack on a historic synagogue in East Melbourne.

Summer soundtrack: The ultimate guide to Greek concerts and festivals in 2025

Wherever you are in the country, The Greek Herald has the inside scoop on must-see performances to catch during your summer escape.

Michael Zannis: The Greek Aussie cricket star redefining blindness

Michael Zannis has turned his ‘disability’ into his superpower. He lives as everyone else does and is thriving.

Greek olive oil today: Production, use and export data

Greek olive oil is consumed in large quantities in Greece today. Still, the small population leaves plenty of oil for export.

Greece ranks fifth highest in Europe for short-term rental prices

Greece has become the fifth most expensive destination in Europe for short-term rentals, with the average nightly rate reaching 250 euros.

You May Also Like

‘Just trying to be in my kids’ lives’: Dimitris Garbas’ MS diagnosis and fight for life

"I'm not going to have my daughter wheeling her father in a chair when she's 16," Dimitri says in an interview with The Greek Herald.

Former E-League competitor Peter Saisanas ‘ducks’ into the app-creating industry

Former E-League competitor, Peter Saisanas, ‘ducks’ into the app-creating industry. He speaks with The Greek Herald.

Zionist Federation of Australia takes legal action against journalist Mary Kostakidis

The Zionist Federation of Australia has filed a legal complaint against Australian journalist Mary Kostakidis, accusing her of antisemitism.