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"Lost Tunnels of the Incas: Unveiling Cusco’s Secret Underground Network"

Writer's picture: Marily CjumoMarily Cjumo

For centuries, legends have spoken of a vast network of tunnels, or "chincanas," hidden beneath the ancient city of Cusco. Now, a team of archaeologists claims to have found scientific evidence that these underground passages connect two of the most significant Inca sites—Coricancha, the sacred temple of the sun, and Sacsayhuamán, the fortress overlooking the city.


A Discovery Rooted in History

Archaeologists Jorge Calero Flores and Mildred Fernández Palomino, both graduates of the National University of San Antonio Abad of Cusco (UNSAAC), have been working on this research since 1997. Recently, with the help of a multidisciplinary team and international experts from Proceq, they have conducted advanced studies using georadar technology. Their findings strongly suggest the existence of an underground passage spanning approximately 1,750 meters between Coricancha and Sacsayhuamán.

Historical chronicles from the 16th and 17th centuries hinted at these hidden passages. Chroniclers such as Anello de Oliva and an anonymous writer described an underground route passing near the Cusco Cathedral and extending toward Sacsayhuamán. This knowledge, coupled with modern technology, has allowed researchers to map out a probable trajectory of the tunnel system.


The Structure of the Tunnels

The passages are believed to be vast excavations reinforced with stone walls, ceilings, and beams, all covered by layers of earth up to two meters deep. The tunnels themselves measure between 1 to 2.6 meters wide and 1.6 meters high. Some sections are so spacious that researchers speculate they could have accommodated the Inca ruler being carried in a ceremonial litter.

Archaeological surveys have revealed that the tunnels consist of multiple branches, with some leading toward Callispuquio, Muyucmarca in Sacsayhuamán, and even behind the Church of San Cristóbal. One segment appears to run parallel to the Procuradores Street near Cusco’s main square, suggesting it may have connected to an Acllahuasi, a residence for chosen women of the Inca Empire.


A Sacred and Strategic Route

The research also suggests that these tunnels were not merely passageways but may have held ritual significance. One entrance is believed to be near a ceremonial stone structure shaped like an “H,” located beside the “Rodaderos” sector of Sacsayhuamán. This site is thought to have been used for astronomical observations and solar alignments.

Furthermore, historical records indicate that the Inca ruler Huayna Cápac may have ordered the construction of a temple at the upper section of Sacsayhuamán in honor of his wife. The underground passages could have played a crucial role in connecting these sacred spaces.


A Path Through Time

The mapped trajectory of the tunnel system crosses through the Sacsayhuamán esplanade, follows a pre-Hispanic road, and extends down to the banks of the Choquechaca River. Some sections appear incomplete, exposing rock cuts that form platforms. The passage continues near the Palace of Colcampata and descends toward the San Cristóbal temple before reaching Coricancha.

Interestingly, the team has identified small horizontal openings along the route, which may have functioned as ventilation shafts, providing further evidence of an intentionally designed underground system.

The Future of Exploration

The discovery of these tunnels represents a groundbreaking step in understanding the true scale of Inca engineering. Calero Flores and Fernández Palomino have faced academic skepticism, but their research is strongly supported by the writings of the Inca chronicler Garcilaso de la Vega, who described hidden subterranean vaults beneath Cusco’s structures.

image: youTube Percy Taira
image: youTube Percy Taira

The team’s work is also influenced by the late Dr. Manuel Chávez Ballón, a highly respected archaeologist known as the "Father of Cusco Archaeology." Chávez Ballón had previously speculated about the existence of underground structures beneath Coricancha, an idea now supported by modern technology and ongoing research.

With further studies, these tunnels may soon be fully explored, shedding new light on one of the most enduring mysteries of Inca civilization. Could these ancient passageways have been used for religious ceremonies, military strategies, or even as an escape route for Inca elites? Only time and continued research will reveal the full story of the lost tunnels of Cusco.

Passage in the temple of Qoricancha
Passage in the temple of Qoricancha

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