Arthur Evans and the Ruins at Knossos

Sir Arthur Evans (far left)

Sir Arthur John Evans was an English archaeologist most famous for unearthing the palace of Knossos on the Greek island of Crete and for developing the concept of Minoan civilization from the structures and artifacts found there and elsewhere throughout the eastern Mediterranean

Evans also took to heart the myths of Homeric epics.  These stories led Arthur Evans to Crete guided by the tale of Theseus and the Minotaur. Following up on a lead of Minos Kalokairinos who had uncovered ruins at Knossos a few years, Evans started excavating in 1899. The finds at Knossos proved to be spectacular, revealing an intricate maze of buildings, pottery, pillars and frescoes. In keeping with Homeric myth, Evans dubbed the ruins at Knossos the “Palace of Minos” and gave the name “Minoan” to the civilization of Bronze Age Crete. 

By the end of 1903 he had uncovered most of the palace and began his work on the surrounding area, completing the reconstruction of the palace in 1938. 

Throne room before reconstruction 

 

Throne room after reconstruction

Griffin couchant (lying down) facing throne