Arthur Evans was a British archaeologist best known for his work on the ancient civilization of Minoan Crete. He is most famous for discovering the palace complex at Knossos in 1900, which he believed to be the legendary home of the Minotaur. His excavations revealed intricate frescoes, pottery, and advanced architectural features, shedding light on the Minoan culture. Evans is also credited with coining the term "Minoan" to describe this civilization, named after the mythical King Minos. His findings significantly advanced the understanding of prehistoric Aegean societies and influenced the study of ancient history and archaeology.