Final answer:
The correct answer is C. Ciriaco de’ Pizzicolli, also known as Cyriacus of Ancona, is the 15th-century traveler who documented archaeological sites in the eastern Mediterranean. His work as an antiquarian and humanist contributed to the Renaissance understanding of ancient civilizations and set the stage for later archaeological studies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 15th-century individual who traveled extensively around the eastern Mediterranean regions to document archeological sites was Ciriaco de’ Pizzicolli. As an antiquarian and humanist, he was one of the earliest to systematically record the ruins of antiquity. Ciriaco is also known as Cyriacus of Ancona, and during the 15th century, he traveled to Greece, Egypt, and the Middle East, documenting ancient ruins, inscriptions, and art.
Ciriaco's work laid the groundwork for later archaeological studies and helped to inspire the rebirth of classical knowledge that occurred in Europe during the Renaissance. He was fascinated by the remnants of classical civilization and his detailed sketches and notes have proven invaluable to the understanding of ancient sites. His efforts in recording the ancient world occurred during a time when travel was primarily reserved for trade, religion, and those with the means to endure the challenges and expenses associated with long journeys.