Tunnel to Two Previously Unknown Chambers Found in Aztec tomb

Tunnel to Two Previously Unknown Chambers Found in Mexican Temple Mayor complex

Archaeologists have found a tunnel-like passageway that appears to lead to two sealed chambers in Mexico’s Templo Mayor complex.

It is the latest chapter in the search for the as-yet-undiscovered tomb of an Aztec ruler.

Part of the newly discovered tunnel. (Notimex / 24-horas.mx)

Leonardo López Luján, director of the last five seasons of excavations of the PTM, who announced the recent discovery of a tunnel 8.38 meters (27.5 feet) long, 45 centimeters (17.7 inches) wide, and a half meter (1.6 feet) tall, which leads to the center of the Cuauhxicalco: a circular structure in which, according to historical sources, the bodies of Tlatoanis (kings or speakers) were cremated.

Detail of the Cuauhxicalco: a structure in which, according to historical sources, the bodies of tlatoanis (kings) were cremated. It is also the location of the newly discovered tunnel. ( Miriam G. Marín C. / MTM-INAH)

The Aztecs are believed to have cremated the remains of their leaders during their 1325-1521 rule, but the final resting place of the remains has never been found.

Excavations on the tunnel and the chambers will continue in 2016.

Source: Templo Mayor Museum

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