Assessment of tunnels stability in the Maya archaeological area of Copán, Honduras

Research at the UNESCO-listed Maya archaeological site of Copán, Honduras, reveals that tunnel stability is significantly influenced by soil saturation levels, particularly during rainy seasons. The study found that while initial excavations lacked structural support, later masonry linings helped mitigate localized collapses. Numerical analyses demonstrated that maintaining low water content in critical sections and ensuring proper drainage in lined tunnels are essential for long-term stability. This insight underscores the importance of monitoring soil moisture to prevent structural failures, providing crucial guidance for preserving such heritage sites.

Bilotta, E., Flora, A., Lourenço, P., & Pires, F. (2023). Assessment of tunnels stability in the Maya archaeological area of Copán, Honduras. E3S Web of Conferences, 382, 17004. https://doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/202338217004