Archeologists have discovered a series of really cool underground tunnels around the Yucatan Peninsula that are thought to have been built by Mayans as a portal for souls trying to enter the underworld. Only because riding the 7 train during rush hour was a phenomenon not yet known to them:

Archeologists say Mayans believed the underground complex of water-filled caves leading into dry chambers — including an underground road stretching some 330 feet — was the path to a mythical underworld, known as Xibalba.

According to an ancient Mayan scripture, the Popol Vuh, the route was filled with obstacles, including rivers filled with scorpions, blood and pus and houses shrouded in darkness or swarming with shrieking bats, Guillermo de Anda, one of the lead investigators at the site, said on Thursday.

And OMG, there’s puppies:

The souls of the dead followed a mythical dog who could see at night, de Anda said.

Archaeologists also discovered stone temples and what they believe to be the remains of human sacrifices. All of which you’ll probably be able to see for yourself once “Xibalbalicious: The Mystic Gift Shop Experience Of Mayan Myth” opens up this Fall.

Portal to mythical Mayan underworld found in Mexico [Reuters]