Quantum tech reveals hidden tunnel beneath Lisbon's streets
Archaeologists have discovered an underground tunnel beneath Rua Augusta in Lisbon, buried during the earthquake of 1755. This marks the first discovery made possible by modern technology.
An international team of archaeologists, including specialists from France, has uncovered an underground tunnel beneath Rua Augusta in Lisbon. This tunnel, likely used for water conveyance, was buried during the earthquake that struck Portugal's capital in 1755.
A major discovery without excavations
Remarkably, no excavations were needed to make this underground discovery. The tunnel was found using modern technology. Camille Janvier from Exail, a company specializing in advanced technologies, informed Portuguese television SIC about what is referred to as "quantum archaeology."
The chairman of the Portuguese Quantum Institute (PQI), Yasser Omar, explained that a quantum gravimeter, which detects changes in ground density, was used. This technique allowed the identification of underground structures without the need for excavations.
The discovery of the tunnel on Rua Augusta is the first instance worldwide of using modern quantum technology in archaeology. "This experiment is a milestone, opening up great prospects for contemporary archaeology. Thanks to this technology, it is possible to effectively search for underground sources of fuels and liquids, such as oil or water. It also successfully predicts spots on roads where holes might appear under the asphalt," added Omar.
The history of the 1755 earthquake
The earthquake of November 1, 1755, was one of the most tragic events in Lisbon's history. The catastrophe destroyed the city, causing the deaths of up to 40,000 people. The reconstruction of Lisbon, led by the Marquis of Pombal, did not uncover all underground structures, demonstrating how much more can be learned about the city's history.
