Archaeologists in Cusco have uncovered a previously hidden section of the Inca road network linked to Qollasuyo during stormwater drainage works in the historic Peruvian city.

The discovery was announced by Peru’s Ministry of Culture following ongoing archaeological monitoring carried out by the Decentralized Directorate of Culture (DDC) of Cusco as part of a major infrastructure project aimed at improving the city’s drainage system.

The ancient road segment was identified beneath Avenida de la Cultura during excavations for the installation of stormwater pipes and drainage catch basins. Archaeologists discovered the structure approximately 90 centimetres below the modern road surface.

According to preliminary investigations, the newly uncovered section formed part of the Inca road system leading to Qollasuyo — one of the four major regions of the Inca Empire. The road was constructed using limestone and sandstone and displays engineering characteristics typical of Inca infrastructure.

Specialists said the exposed segment measures around 40 metres in length and includes sections with walls rising up to three stone courses high, as well as an associated lateral retaining wall.

Peruvian State

Following the discovery, authorities immediately suspended the use of heavy machinery in the affected area. Archaeological teams have since continued work manually in order to delimit, assess, and protect the remains.

Archaeologist Reynaldo Bustinza, who leads the DDC Cusco team overseeing the excavation, said the structure retained significant original features despite centuries of urban expansion and modern development.

“The identified section preserves characteristics that indicate it formed part of the Inca road network connected to Qollasuyo,” specialists from the DDC Cusco said in a statement. “It represents important evidence of the territorial organisation and engineering capabilities developed by the Inca civilisation.”

To ensure the preservation of the archaeological remains, the Ministry of Culture has introduced emergency safeguarding measures and recommended redesigning part of the drainage project to avoid damaging the site. Officials also called for the implementation of a mitigation plan to guarantee long-term protection of the cultural asset.

The discovery highlights the importance of Archaeological Monitoring Plans, which are designed to balance urban infrastructure development with the preservation of Peru’s archaeological heritage.

The Ministry of Culture said further technical investigations and conservation work would continue in accordance with national heritage protection regulations, with the aim of documenting and preserving the newly uncovered section of the Qhapaq Ñan — the vast Inca road network recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sources : Peruvian State