A new chapter in Inca archaeology as underground tunnels discovered beneath Cusco’s historic district

Underground tunnels, which have been long rumoured in local legends, have been discovered

A remarkable discovery of underground tunnels beneath Cusco’s historic district is offering fresh insights into Inca engineering and cultural practices. Image: Machu Picchu, the Inca city located in the department of Cusco, in Peru

Cusco, once the illustrious capital of the Inca Empire, has once again become the centre of attention for archaeologists and history enthusiasts worldwide.

A remarkable discovery of underground tunnels beneath the city’s historic district is offering fresh insights into Inca engineering and cultural practices. The unearthing of these passageways, long rumoured in local legends, could reshape our understanding of how the Inca built and organised their imperial seat, known in their language as the navel of the world.