Mérida subterranean structure explored by speleologists

Members of the Grupo Espeleológico Ajau recently conducted a reconnaissance expedition to document a mysterious subterranean structure located beneath the Centro Cultural del Mayab in Mérida, Yucatán. The site, which is linked to a 16th-century former convent, features limestone masonry, barrel vaults, and semi-circular arches characteristic of colonial-era construction.

During the exploration, researchers identified at least nine rectangular openings of uniform distribution located at various heights within the walls, the purpose of which remains unknown. The team also discovered charcoal fragments embedded in the construction mixture, a technique of Mayan origin later adopted by Spanish builders to mitigate humidity.

Experts are currently debating the original function of the space. While certain architectural features suggest it may have served as a crypt, the presence of moisture leads to the hypothesis that it could have functioned as a water reservoir or cistern. The group has documented the site through photography and field notes for further analysis.