The earliest civilization on European soil, centred on Crete (c.3000–1100 bc), it was first revealed by the excavations of Sir Arthur Evans, who gave it its name, based on the legendary King Minos. It had reached its zenith by the beginning of the late Bronze Age, extending over the islands of the south Aegean while its wares were exported to Cyprus, Syria, and Egypt. Urban centres were dominated by palaces such as those at Knossos, Mallia, Phaistos, and Zakro. Divided into two periods by a devastating earthquake that occurred c.1700 bc, the Minoan civilization was noted particularly for its Linear A script and distinctive palatial art and architecture. It greatly influenced the later Mycenacans, whose presence in Crete is attested from the 16th century bc and who succeeded the Minoans in control of the Aegean c.1400 bc.