The famous explorer known for circumnavigating the globe in the early 16th century is **Ferdinand Magellan**. His expedition, which began in 1519, aimed to find a westward route to the Spice Islands. Although Magellan himself did not survive the entire journey, as he was killed in the Philippines in 1521, his fleet continued under the command of Juan Sebastián Elcano. The expedition successfully completed its voyage in 1522, proving that the Earth could be circumnavigated. It marked a significant achievement in navigation, expanding European knowledge of the world and enhancing trade routes.