From Wn.com

Archaeologists say they have discovered an underground water tunnel built underneath the Temple of Inscriptions, known for housing the tomb of the ancient ruler Pakal, which was likely built to provide the deceased with a path to the underworld according to CBS News.

The tomb and pyramid were erected sometime between 683 and 702 AD, lying on top of a spring with tunnels leading water from below the funeral chamber out into the esplanade at the front of the temple.

Archaeologist Arnoldo Gonzalez says the researchers also discovered inscribed stone earplugs, saying that the god “will guide the dead toward the underworld, by submerging (them) into the water so they will be received there.”

The tunnel is connected to another underground divert, made of natural stone and standing about two feet wide and tall. Many other discoveries have indicated the importance of water current in other pre-Hispanic peoples who lived close to the site near Mexico City.

Digging on the site started in 2012 after an anomaly was detected with geo-radar at the foot of the pyramid’s steps that had researchers worried about a hole or geological fault causing the potential collapse of the site. However upon inspection, they discovered the tunnel had the same three-layered stone that was used on the floor of Pakal’s tomb.

Researchers hope to explore the tunnel more as no shaft or connection has been found yet between the tomb and tunnel but due to the small size of the conduit they have only been able to send a remote controlled camera to explore thus far.

– WN.com, Maureen Foody

For more on this story and audio and video go to:  http://article.wn.com/view/2016/07/26/Unknown_Tunnel_Discovered_Under_Mayan_Ruins/