It’s long been rumored that a network of old, underground tunnels lies beneath Cusco, Peru, the capital of the ancient Incan empire. Now, thanks to archival texts and ground-penetrating radar, researchers say they’ve confirmed the tunnels’ existence.

In a breakthrough discovery, archaeologists have unearthed a hidden labyrinth beneath the historic city of Cusco, Peru, confirming centuries-old rumors of a labyrinth stretching beneath the ancient capital of the Inca Empire.

The Incan Temple of the Sun in Cusco has long been a visual and cultural jewel of the ancient empire. But there’s even more to admire below ground. Recently, archaeologists confirmed a long-held rumor: the existence of labyrinth of underground tunnels extending out from the temple, sometimes over a mile in length.

Under Inca rule, Cusco was developed into a complex urban centre with distinct religious and administrative functions. It is renowned for its architectural and cultural heritage and was surrounded by clearly delineated areas for agricultural, artisan and industrial production.

Archaeologists in Peru have confirmed the existence of a mile-long underground tunnel network beneath the historic city of Cusco, ending centuries of speculation about the ancient Inca passageways. The newly verified tunnel system connects the city's Temple of the Sun to the ancient Sacsayhuaman fortress,