In archaeology, some of the most fascinating discoveries are often the most unexpected. Machu Picchu is a 600-year-old Inca citadel and a national treasure in Peru. Interestingly, researchers recently uncovered a temple that’s 3,500 years older. Among these remarkable and surprising findings is the latest discovery, which a Jesuit hinted at centuries ago.
An underground labyrinth. Archaeologists in Peru recently confirmed the existence of an extensive tunnel system, known as Chinkana, beneath the Peruvian city of Cusco. The underground labyrinth was once thought to be merely an ancient legend.
The research work was based on clues left in several chronicles by an anonymous Spanish Jesuit from the XVI century who wrote about tunnels and passageways extending toward Machu Picchu. The discovery reveals a 5,740-foot-long network of passages that interconnect iconic sites such as Coricancha and the Sacsayhuaman fortress, as well as other significant locations in the city.
It’s an astounding treasure.
Clues from historical texts. As mentioned earlier, the recent discovery of the tunnel network was based on several historical documents, including an anonymous Jesuit chronicle from 1594, which describes an entrance to the tunnels at Sacsayhuaman. Additionally, the writings of chronicler Giovanni Anello Oliva mentioned the existence of multiple underground passages that ran through the city, including routes beneath the Cusco Cathedral and the archbishop’s residences.
To validate these claims, researchers consulted experts such as Manuel Chávez Ballón, who is regarded as the father of archaeology in Cusco. Chávez Ballón recommended inspecting areas beneath the city’s sidewalks for further clues.
Technological methods used in exploration. The exploration of the Chinkana system was carried out in several phases using advanced technology. Initially, archaeologists employed acoustic tests. This method consists of using metal plates that are struck against the ground every 20 inches to detect underground cavities through sound resonance.
In subsequent phases, researchers implemented more sophisticated techniques, such as ground-penetrating radar and acoustic prospecting. These methods allowed for accurate mapping of the tunnel structures by generating detailed images of the subsoil.
Structure and characteristics of the Chinkana system. The Chinkana system consists of a network of tunnels featuring large trenches lined with stone walls and carved-beam ceilings. According to archaeologist Jorge Calero Flores, the passages measure between 3.3 and 8.5 feet in width and are 5.2 meters high. This suggests that the Inca nobility may have used them to move about in bunk beds.
Chinkana is divided into three main branches, which lead to Callispuquio, the Muyucmarca sector in Sacsayhuaman, and the Church of San Cristóbal. This layout suggests that the Incas had advanced strategic planning skills.
What’s next? Archaeologists are planning to begin excavations in the coming months, likely between March and April, to access the tunnels physically. They’ve already submitted a request for authorization to the Peruvian culture ministry to proceed with controlled drilling in the Sacsayhuaman area. This will allow them to verify the extent and condition of the underground passages.
Historical and cultural significance. The recent finding undoubtedly has a significant impact. Cusco was the administrative and political capital of the Inca Empire in the 15th century before the Spanish conquest. The city now serves as a crucial archaeological center that adds even more layers to its rich history.
Additionally, the Chinkana discovery offers new insights into the engineering and urban planning of the Incas, who seemingly designed this system as an underground representation of the city. Chronicles such as Inca Garcilaso de la Vega’s Royal Commentaries of the Incas mentioned the existence of underground streets connecting Sacsayhuaman with Coricancha. The recent discovery provides tangible evidence to support these claims.
Overall, the finding confirms an ancient myth passed down through the Jesuits and presents an opportunity to uncover lesser-known aspects of Inca civilization. Future exploration of these tunnels represents a potential “entrance” to the past. It could yield invaluable information about the life and legacy of this historic civilization and the extent of its subterranean passageways.
Image | Vlad D
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