In an astonishing development, archaeologists have uncovered a 1,750-meter-long tunnel system beneath the Temple of the Sun in Cusco, Peru. This groundbreaking discovery was announced during a press conference titled “Chinkana: Unveiling of a Mystery” at the Provincial Municipality of Cusco. The tunnel, which originates from the Temple of the Sun—recognized as the most important temple in the Inca Empire—extends towards the citadel of Sacsahuaman on the northern outskirts of the city.
The Chinkana tunnel system features three distinct branches: one leading to Callispuquio, another to the Muyucmarca sector in Sacsahuaman, and a third that runs behind the Church of San Cristóbal. This revelation underscores the incredible engineering and architectural prowess of the Inca civilization, offering new insights into their sophisticated construction techniques and cultural practices.
Advanced technologies, including ground-penetrating radar and acoustic prospecting studies, were employed to confirm the existence of the tunnels. The research team, led by archaeologists Jorge Calero and Mildred Fernandez, utilized historical documents from the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries, consulting over 1,600 texts to pinpoint the tunnel’s location. The use of sound tests and geo radars was instrumental in tracing the path of this elaborate underground network.
This discovery is a significant milestone in understanding the complex infrastructure of the Inca civilization. The Chinkana tunnel system not only exemplifies the ingenuity of Inca engineering but also provides a deeper appreciation of their architectural achievements. This find is poised to offer historians and archaeologists a wealth of knowledge about the Inca Empire’s hidden wonders.
"Archaeologists have announced the discovery of a Chinkana tunnel system (meaning “labyrinth”), stretching over 1,750 metres beneath the city of Cusco"
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Sources:
https://colombiaone.com/2025/01/14/inca-tunnel-cusco-peru/