The Alps were not "discovered" in the way a new island or a new species might be discovered. They have always been there, and people have lived in and around them for thousands of years.

Here's a breakdown:

* Prehistoric and Ancient Times: The Alps were inhabited by various cultures, including the Celts, Romans, and others. These groups used the passes through the mountains for trade and travel.

* Medieval Period: Monasteries and settlements were established in the Alps, and the mountains became an important source of resources, including timber, minerals, and grazing land.

* Renaissance and Enlightenment: European explorers and scholars began to document the Alps in more detail, mapping the terrain and studying the geology and natural history of the region.

* Modern Era: The Alps have been a popular destination for tourism, mountaineering, and skiing since the 19th century.

Therefore, there is no single "discoverer" of the Alps. They were inhabited and known about long before recorded history.