Mayan 'soul portal' found: 18-08-2008
Archaeologists in Mexico have uncovered a hidden maze of temples and caves containing human remains, according to Reuters.
Parts of the site are submerged under water and researchers had to don scuba equipment to explore.
The discovery, in the Yucatan area, is believed to have been an ancient Mayan 'portal' for dead souls into the underworld, according to leading archaeologist Guillermo de Anda.
"They believed that this place was the entrance to Xibalba. That is why we have found the offerings there," he told Reuters.
"It is very likely this area was protected as a sacred depository for the dead or for the passage of their souls."
Scientists have been exploring the site for five months and believe the site to be around 1,900 to 2,858 years old.
The Mayans have left architectural evidence of their existence around Mexico in the shape of pyramids and palaces. It is believed the civilisation abandoned its cities around 1,100 years ago.