Assessment of Excavated Tunnels Stability in the Maya Archeological Area of Copán, Honduras

Research at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Copán, Honduras, reveals critical insights into the stability of archaeological tunnels under varying soil saturation levels. The study found that unlined tunnels become unsafe when soil saturation exceeds 70%, while lined tunnels maintain stability even at full saturation, provided proper drainage is ensured. This assessment provides actionable recommendations for preserving the site, including potential back-filling of tunnels and adding masonry linings to mitigate risks. The study categorized a 4 km network of tunnels—excavated over the past century—into sections based on lining presence or absence, then analyzed their stability in relation to soil saturation increases. These findings offer practical guidance for managing buried archaeological structures, balancing access with structural integrity.

Pires, F., Bilotta, E., Flora, A., & Lourenço, P. B. (2021). Assessment of Excavated Tunnels Stability in the Maya Archeological Area of Copán, Honduras. International Journal of Architectural Heritage, 17(3), 431–449. https://doi.org/10.1080/15583058.2021.1931730