Hidden tunnel could lead to Mayan 'entrance to the underworld'

By Mark Tutton, CNN

Updated 1755 GMT (0155 HKT) February 2, 2018

Chat with us in Facebook Messenger. Find out what's happening in the world as it unfolds.

Archaeologists are hoping to discover an underwater cavern hidden beneath the imposing "El Castillo" temple, at Chichen Itza, Mexico.
Photos:
Archaeologists are hoping to discover an underwater cavern hidden beneath the imposing "El Castillo" temple, at Chichen Itza, Mexico.
Hide Caption
1 of 12
Chichen itza, in Yucatan state, is one of the most impressive achievements of the ancient Mayan people. Pictured, thousands of tourists surround "El Castillo" during a spring equinox celebration.
Photos:
Chichen itza, in Yucatan state, is one of the most impressive achievements of the ancient Mayan people. Pictured, thousands of tourists surround "El Castillo" during a spring equinox celebration.
Hide Caption
2 of 12
Water-filled caverns -- called cenotes -- sustained the Mayan civilization, and were central to its spiritual beliefs. Pictured, Holtun cenote in Chichen Itza.
Photos:
Water-filled caverns -- called cenotes -- sustained the Mayan civilization, and were central to its spiritual beliefs. Pictured, Holtun cenote in Chichen Itza.
Hide Caption
3 of 12
The archaeologists are part of the Great Mayan Aquifer Project, which aims to learn more about the cenotes of the Yucatan and their significance to the Maya. The project is supported by the National Geographic Society.
Photos:
The archaeologists are part of the Great Mayan Aquifer Project, which aims to learn more about the cenotes of the Yucatan and their significance to the Maya. The project is supported by the National Geographic Society.