The prominent archaeologist known for their discoveries in ancient civilizations is Hiram Bingham III. He is best known for bringing international attention to the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu in Peru in 1911. Bingham's exploration and subsequent findings provided valuable insights into Incan culture and architecture. Despite controversies regarding the legitimacy of his claims to discovery, his work significantly advanced archaeological research. Bingham's legacy continues to spark interest in archaeology, and his contributions have inspired further exploration and study of ancient cultures.