Clypeus - 1972 - Vol 9 No 3

Magazine Overview

Title: CLYPEUS
Issue: ANNO IX - N. 3 (40)
Date: Giugno 1972 (June 1972)
Publisher: Gianni V. Settimo
Country: Italy
Price: LIRE 500
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Articles and Content

Dalla Jugoslavia: gli Ufo e la Cia (From Yugoslavia: UFOs and the CIA)

This article by Renato Vesco introduces the acronym O.V.N.I.D.U. (Oggetti Volanti Non Identificati Dagli Ufologi - Unidentified Flying Objects By Ufologists), suggesting a critical perspective on UFO reports. Vesco proposes that sightings in Yugoslavia during October 1971, which were reported as UFOs, were actually 'radar-vento' (wind radar) phenomena or 'palloni-pilota' (pilot balloons), possibly spy balloons launched by the CIA. He references reports of triangular and pyramidal objects observed moving over the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian seas, as well as over parts of Yugoslavia. The article dismisses the extraterrestrial explanation, favoring a more mundane, albeit clandestine, military origin for these sightings. A specific incident mentioned is the crash of a 'spy device' in Bjalljina, Bosnia, which Vesco attributes to a malfunctioning balloon.

Per 5.000 sterline uccido chi volete (For 5,000 pounds I will kill whoever you want)

This article by Franco Fossati delves into the complex and often controversial topic of assigning a monetary value to human life. It begins by acknowledging philosophical and religious perspectives that deem life invaluable. However, it then shifts to practical considerations, particularly those relevant to insurance companies and wartime scenarios. Fossati cites a calculation from 'La Presse Médicale' that estimates the material value of the human body at around 2170 lire, based on its constituent elements. The article further explores how insurance companies, especially in recent times, use economic technicians to determine compensation for accidental deaths. Examples include a young mother valued at 75 million lire and a tragic case of an atomic engineer's widow receiving 480 million lire. The author questions the ethical implications of such valuations, noting that they can lead to a 'hierarchy of values' and may not account for intangible aspects of life. The article also touches upon the concept of life insurance, mentioning a case of a 15 million dollar policy. It concludes by referencing a letter from 1966 where a man offered his life for ten million lire, highlighting societal reactions to such propositions. Fossati also briefly touches upon the cost of killing an enemy soldier in war, noting how this cost has increased over time.

I nani accanto ai "grandi" (Dwarfs next to the "giants")

Written by Gianni V. Settimo, this article explores the historical phenomenon of dwarfs, often kept as curiosities or 'living toys' in various courts. Settimo defines a dwarf based on Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire's description of a person whose limbs have undergone general underdevelopment, resulting in a stature significantly below the average for their species. The article traces the presence of dwarfs from ancient times, mentioning the Troglodytes of Ethiopia and the Pygmies described by Homer. It notes their depiction in Egyptian artifacts, such as the sarcophagus lid of the dwarf Puoinheteh, and mentions their presence in Roman and Greek societies, where they were sometimes kept as domestic servants or curiosities by figures like Emperor Augustus and Emperor Tiberius. The article highlights their role in medieval courts, citing the Bayeux Tapestry which depicts the dwarf Tyrold. It also discusses their presence during the Renaissance, with examples from the courts of Mantua and France, including the famous Triboulet. The article mentions the tradition of gifting dwarfs and even attempts at breeding them. It touches upon the practice of using dwarfs in gladiatorial contests and notes that while some emperors, like Alexander Severus, attempted to curb the practice, it persisted.

Altri articoli e rubriche

• Giocano a carte per l'eternità (They play cards for eternity) by Renzo Rossotti.
• Il cervello è un computer (The brain is a computer) by I. G. Noto.
• Di che segno sei? (What sign are you?) by Bianca Capone.
• Gli etruschi sono una sciarada (The Etruscans are a riddle) by Bianca Ferrari.
• Vieni da Rah? (Are you from Rah?) by Gianvittorio VII.
• Il libro magico di Elva (Elva's magic book) by Euclide Milano.
• Trentamila anni fa (Thirty thousand years ago) by Roberto Pinotti.
• Lord Dowding parlava con i morti? (Did Lord Dowding speak with the dead?) by Diemme.
• Gli animali sconosciuti (Unknown animals) by Maurizio Tamburini.
• Il preistorico Coelacanthus (The prehistoric Coelacanthus) by Bianca Ferrari.
• Chi era Zarathustra? (Who was Zarathustra?) by Luciana Monticone.
• Cristo nacque il 17 giugno? (Was Christ born on June 17th?) by Arcana Biferri.
• Che cosa farà un astronauta in riposo? (What will an astronaut do at rest?) by Esseu.
• Cornucopia by Electra De Andreis.
• Biblioteca segreta (Secret library) by Celto Bardo.
• In orbita con i francobolli (In orbit with stamps) by Phil Aster.
• Baal: un enigma mitologico (Baal: a mythological enigma) (Clypeus section).
• Lettere al direttore (Letters to the editor).
• Cronache e prodigi (Chronicles and prodigies).
• Chi cerca trova (He who seeks finds).

La meteorologia sconfigge l'ufologia (Meteorology defeats ufology)

This section presents a meteorological map from October 10, 1971, to explain the movement of atmospheric pressure systems and wind currents over Europe. The author uses this data to argue against extraterrestrial explanations for UFO sightings, suggesting that the observed phenomena were consistent with the trajectory of balloons (likely spy balloons) moving within these prevailing winds. The article implies that the sightings were misinterpreted by ufologists and that scientific meteorological data provides a more plausible explanation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine "Clypeus" focuses on "Cronache dell'Insolito" (Chronicles of the Unusual), covering a wide range of topics that fall outside mainstream scientific or historical understanding. This issue demonstrates a skeptical yet curious approach to phenomena such as UFOs, often seeking rational or mundane explanations (like spy balloons or meteorological events) for events that others might attribute to the paranormal or extraterrestrial. There is also an interest in historical curiosities, such as the role of dwarfs, and philosophical inquiries into the value of human life. The editorial stance appears to favor empirical evidence and scientific reasoning, while still acknowledging and exploring the 'unusual' and the unexplained.

This issue of the magazine, titled "IL CERVELLO E' UN COMPUTER" (The Brain is a Computer), focuses on the extraordinary abilities of individuals with exceptional memory and calculation skills. The cover features a symbolic illustration of a brain integrated with computer elements.

Prodigious Memory and Calculation

The article begins by introducing Metrodoro of Lampsaco, a Greek philosopher renowned for his perfect memory, capable of recalling every discourse he heard. It then lists other historical figures with remarkable mnemonic abilities, including Cyrus of Persia, who knew the names of thirty thousand soldiers; Mithridates, King of Pontus and Bithynia, who spoke all languages without an interpreter; Carmides, a disciple of Plato, who could recite entire volumes from memory; Julius Caesar, who dictated to ten secretaries simultaneously; Seneca, who remembered two thousand words in order and could recite them backwards; and Simplicio, a commentator on Aristotle, who could recite Virgil's Aeneid backwards.

Further examples include Sant'Antonio, Archbishop of Florence, who at sixteen had learned an entire folio of decrees and canons in a few months, and could cite them backwards. The text also mentions a Corsican law student who could repeat a long list of Latin, Greek, and barbarian names, both forwards and backwards, with remarkable accuracy, even recalling them a year later.

The Science of Prodigies

The article highlights the work of M. Robert Tocquet, a professor at the School of Anthropology in Paris, who has studied these phenomena. Tocquet's book, "Le calcul mental," explores the psychological, historical, and folkloric aspects of these human calculators. It is noted that these individuals, often referred to as "prodigies," can sometimes appear seemingly ordinary, yet possess extraordinary mental capabilities.

Characteristics of Prodigious Calculators

Several characteristics of these individuals are discussed:

• Early Manifestation: While some display their abilities early, others, like the 'human calculator' Signorina Osaka, may appear to be 'late bloomers,' only showing their talent later in life.
• Sudden Appearance: The emergence of their gift is often described as sudden, like a lightning strike.
• Passion for Numbers: They are often irresistibly drawn to numbers, treating them like a familiar ocean.
• Varied Development: Some prodigies refine their abilities throughout their lives (like Gauss and Eulero), while others may lose them as they receive classical education (like Ampère).

Notable Examples

• Signorina Osaka: In an experiment, Dr. Osty dictated 100 random digits to her at a rate of one per second. She repeated them perfectly forwards and backwards, even after a 45-minute conversation about unrelated topics.
• Shakuntala Devi: This Indian calculator can extract the twentieth root of a 42-digit number in three to four seconds and perform ten multiplications resulting in a 39-digit number almost instantly. She famously stated, "I don't know my limits."
• Inaudi and Dagbert: These calculators are mentioned for their ability to perform complex calculations, sometimes while engaged in other activities like playing the violin.
• Paul Lidoreau: He treated his calculating ability as a luxury, using it only for personal satisfaction. He demonstrated his skills by solving complex mathematical problems, such as finding the cube root of 3,796,416, and determining the day of the week for a historical date.

The Mystery of the Gift

The article emphasizes that there is no clear description or explanation for this extraordinary gift. It is presented as a supernatural quality that can only be truly appreciated by witnessing a demonstration.

The "Late Learner" Phenomenon

It is noted that many prodigious calculators were initially considered "late learners" or even "idiots" in their early development, highlighting the paradox that apparent intellectual slowness can coexist with prodigious calculation skills.

Proposed Institute for Study

The author suggests the creation of an institute dedicated to the study of prodigious calculators. Such an institute would allow for the selection and grouping of these individuals, fostering an environment for them to develop and be studied. The hope is that this research could shed light on the nature of these abilities, potentially revealing whether they represent a new form of human evolution.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes the scientific and psychological investigation of extraordinary human abilities, particularly those related to memory and calculation. It presents these individuals not as mere curiosities but as subjects worthy of serious study, suggesting that understanding them could unlock deeper insights into the potential of the human mind. The editorial stance is one of curiosity and a call for further research and dedicated study of these rare talents.

This issue of the magazine focuses on the enduring mystery of the Etruscan language, titled "GLI ETRUSCHI SONO UNA SCIARADA" (The Etruscans are a Riddle). The cover highlights that the language of this ancient people remains a mystery, a "cultural puzzle" for scholars.

The Etruscan Enigma

The article begins by contrasting Etruscan with other ancient languages like Egyptian and Assyro-Babylonian, which have been deciphered. Despite being written in an archaic Greek alphabet that is easily readable, the meaning of most Etruscan words remains unknown, with only about a hundred words being understood. This linguistic puzzle has persisted despite its relatively recent historical presence in Italy compared to other ancient civilizations.

Ancient historians like Dionysius of Halicarnassus, writing in the 1st century BC, noted the Etruscan people's originality and distinctiveness in language and customs, stating, "The Etruscan people were entirely original and unlike any other people in language and customs."

The Roman conquest of the Etruscans is described as a "damnatio memoriae" (condemnation of memory), which may have contributed to the loss of Etruscan literature. By the time of Emperor Augustus, Etruscan was already disappearing as a spoken language. Archaeologist Sibille von Cles Reden notes that almost all epigraphic evidence related to Etruscan civilization and history has been lost. The twenty volumes on Etruscan history by Emperor Claudius, which could have been a key to solving the enigma, are also lost.

Etruscan Literature and Oral Tradition

A central question explored is whether the Etruscans had a literature, and if so, whether it was destroyed by the Romans or lost over centuries. Professor Mario Signorelli suggests that the Etruscans might have had an unwritten language, meaning their literature never existed. This theory posits that the priestly caste imposed a rule of not writing anything down to protect the nation's secrets. When they adopted written signs from the Greeks, they used them primarily for funerary purposes, recording only the name, parentage, age, and sometimes the occupation of the deceased.

Key Etruscan Texts and Inscriptions

Few Etruscan inscriptions of significant importance have survived, with short tomb epigraphs being of limited interest. The longest known text is the fragment from the "Book of the Mummy of Zagreb." This text was found on linen bandages of an Egyptian mummy donated to a museum in Zagreb by a Croatian traveler. The inscriptions were identified as words from an Etruscan ritual text. This discovery is significant as it is considered "the only sacred book on cloth preserved for the Greco-Roman world."

The article speculates on why this Etruscan book, originally a scroll, was cut into strips to wrap the mummy. It's suggested that the Etruscans, known as skilled mariners and traders who navigated the Mediterranean, might have formed a community in Egypt that continued to speak their ancestral language and practice their religion.

Decipherment Attempts and Theories

Since the last century, scholars have attempted to decipher the few surviving Etruscan inscriptions, comparing the language to Greek, Hebrew, Gaelic, Caucasian, and Basque. The inscription from the Cippus of Perugia has been subject to various interpretations: rural laws concerning land boundaries, religious texts with rituals, a decree for building a tomb, a commemorative stone of battles, or a funerary stele. Other theories suggest it was a travelogue of Etruscan sailors or a legal text concerning the donation of funerary land.

The dice found in Tuscania, with six short words indicating the first six numbers (SA, THU, ZAL, MACH, HUTH, CI), also present a puzzle regarding their correct sequence. Different scholars have proposed various orderings.

Despite these differing interpretations, modern linguists agree that Etruscan is neither an Indo-European nor a Semitic language.

The "Magical Book of Elva"

Another section discusses "IL LIBRO MAGICO DI ELVA" (The Magical Book of Elva), located in the Valle Maira, province of Cuneo, Italy. This ancient, handwritten book, with mysterious characters and pages stained red like blood, is said to have belonged to a local priest. Reciting its phrases could allegedly produce supernatural phenomena, such as obscuring the sun, dimming the moon, unleashing hurricanes, and altering rivers or mountains. The article recounts a story where the priest, with the bishop's permission, could have made a mountain disappear to shorten the bishop's journey, but the bishop refused, citing divine will.

The priest used the book for benevolent purposes, regulating seasons, sunlight, and rain, and dispelling illnesses. However, a visitor once mishandled the book, causing chaos: the sun darkened, people and animals became agitated, mountains shook, and fiery figures appeared in the sky. The priest managed to restore order by using the book correctly. Upon his death, he had the book sealed within a large pillar of a house to prevent further misuse.

Linguistic Connections and Theories

The article touches upon theories linking Etruscan to other ancient peoples. One hypothesis suggests a vast linguistic area encompassing the Pyrenees, Aegean Islands, and the Caucasus, based on an inscription found on a stele on the island of Lemnos, which is similar to Etruscan. Another speculative theory, drawing from Plato's account of Atlantean dominance, suggests Etruscans might have originated from Atlantis and had connections to Africa and Europe.

The Pirgi Gold Laminas

In 1964, a significant discovery was made at Pirgi: three gold laminas with inscriptions. Two contained Etruscan text (24 lines), and one had Punic text (10 lines). The Punic text was a summary of the Etruscan inscriptions, but it did not provide the key to deciphering the Etruscan language, leaving scholars still searching for the "Etruscan Rosetta Stone."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the enigmatic nature of the Etruscan language and civilization. It highlights the ongoing efforts and challenges in deciphering Etruscan, presenting various theories and historical accounts. The editorial stance appears to be one of fascination with the mystery, presenting scholarly debates and ancient legends alike, while emphasizing the lack of definitive answers. The inclusion of the "Magical Book of Elva" story adds a layer of folklore and the supernatural to the exploration of ancient mysteries.

This issue of the magazine, identified by its cover headline "30000 ANNI FA" (30,000 Years Ago) and featuring an article by Roberto Pinotti, delves into several intriguing and often debated topics related to ancient mysteries, unexplained phenomena, and historical enigmas. The cover itself poses a provocative question about a circular hole found in a bison's skull, suggesting it might not be a simple animal injury.

The Bison Skull Mystery

The lead article, "L'ipotesi che il foro, perfettamente circolare, che si trova sulla fronte di un bisonte di 70.000 anni fa, sia stato provocato da una pallottola, appare ormai assolutamente fantastica," by Roberto Pinotti, examines the case of a bison skull discovered in Yakutia. The skull, estimated to be between 30,000 and 70,000 years old, features a perfectly round hole in its forehead. Victor Louis, a journalist for the "Evening News," reported in 1962 that scientists believed this hole was caused by a bullet. Konstantin Flerov, curator of the Museum of Paleontology in Moscow, is quoted as saying the bone began to calcify, indicating the bison did not die from the wound. Louis also referenced a prehistoric human skull found in the British Museum, which also had two round holes, possibly from bullets.

However, the article later presents a letter from Professor Konstantin K. Flerov, Director of the Museum of Paleontology of the USSR Academy of Sciences, dated June 11, 1965. Flerov confirms the existence of the bison skull with a circular hole but suggests more probable natural explanations, such as the horn of another bison during a fight or the action of parasites. He notes that similar phenomena are observed in modern domestic animals and states there is no evidence to support the idea of 'visitors' from other planets, dismissing such notions as purely fantastic speculation by A. P. Kazantsev. Flerov dates the skull to the Middle Pleistocene, approximately 40,000 years ago, and mentions that no one at the museum deals with such questions or can provide contacts for Soviet scientists interested in 'visitors from space'.

The magazine's editorial stance, as expressed in a subsequent section, defends A. P. Kazantsev against Flerov's dismissal, highlighting Kazantsev's scientific consistency in his hypotheses about extraterrestrial presence in the past. The article points out that Victor Louis's reporting on the bison skull was inaccurate, as Flerov himself did not claim it was caused by a bullet but rather considered it a natural occurrence.

Lord Dowding and Communication with the Dead

Another significant feature is "LORD DOWDING PARLAVA CON I MORTI?" (Did Lord Dowding Speak with the Dead?), which explores the claims of Lord Dowding, the Marshal of the Royal Air Force during the Battle of Britain. The article presents Dowding's assertion that he could speak with the dead, stating he had communicated with over 500 deceased pilots. He claimed these communications provided insights into how they were shot down, which helped him advise his crews and save hundreds of lives. The article explains that Dowding's communication was facilitated by a medium, the wife of a Wimbledon doctor. It recounts an incident where Dowding tried to convince seven crew members of a downed bomber that they were dead, but they only accepted it when one of them tried to play a piano and his hand passed through the keys.

The article touches upon spiritualist doctrines, explaining the concept of an 'invisible double' that remains connected to the physical body by an 'silver cord' after death. It suggests that in cases of brutal death, like those of pilots or traffic accident victims, this double may not immediately detach and might attempt to communicate with the living for help. Dowding is described as an 'afterlife nurse' who helped these 'errant spirits' accept their death.

The Enigma of the Loch Ness Monster

"GLI ANIMALI SCONOSCIUTI" (Unknown Animals) by Maurizio Tamburini discusses the Loch Ness Monster, 'Nessie'. The article notes that the creature's existence is supported by numerous testimonies and photographs, including those by Hugh Gray and R. K. Wilson. It mentions sonar readings in 1968 that detected a large, mobile object in the loch. The article also explores possible identifications, including the Tullimonstrum gregarium, a fossilized marine creature with a serpentine neck and four-legged appearance, and compares Nessie's depiction to prehistoric English and Mesopotamian graffiti of dragons. It highlights that some people are actively trying to protect Nessie from disturbance, advocating for it to be referred to as a 'monster' and discouraging attempts to probe or drain the loch.

The Prehistoric Coelacanthus

"IL PREISTORICO COELACANTHUS" (The Prehistoric Coelacanthus) by Bianca Ferrari recounts the discovery of the Coelacanthus, a fish believed to have been extinct for about fifty million years. The first fossil was found in England in 1839, dating back to the Permian period. The first living specimen was caught in 1938 in East London, South Africa. This strange fish, weighing 57 kilograms and measuring a meter long, had a scaly armor and fin-like limbs. Its discovery raised questions about human evolution and the survival of ancient species. Subsequent specimens were found in 1952 and 1953 near the Comore Islands. The article notes that the Coelacanthus lives in the waters around the Comoros and the Mozambique Channel and suggests it might be a 'pro-uncle' of humans, rather than a direct ancestor, as it represents a lineage that evolved differently.

Zarathustra: Myth or Reality?

"CHI ERA ZARATHUSTRA?" (Who Was Zarathustra?) by Luciana Monticone explores the historical figure of Zarathustra, the founder of Zoroastrianism. The article discusses the challenges in determining his exact historical period, with estimates ranging from the 6th century BC to much earlier dates. It mentions that Zarathustra is credited with laying the foundations for Christian monotheism. The article touches upon his origins, possibly in Media or Bactriana, and his connection to the ancient Persian king Vistaspa. It also discusses interpretations of Zarathustra's teachings, his concept of a single God (Ahura Mazda), and the parallels between Zoroastrianism and Christianity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores topics that challenge conventional scientific and historical narratives. It shows a fascination with unexplained phenomena, ancient mysteries, and the possibility of extraterrestrial influence on Earth's past. The editorial stance appears to be open to investigating controversial theories, even when they contradict mainstream scientific consensus, as seen in the defense of A. P. Kazantsev and the detailed exploration of Lord Dowding's claims. There's a recurring theme of questioning established timelines and origins, whether concerning ancient life forms like the Coelacanthus, historical figures like Zarathustra, or the possibility of ancient astronauts. The magazine seems to aim at presenting information that sparks curiosity and encourages readers to consider alternative perspectives on history and the unexplained.

This issue of "Clypeus" presents a diverse range of articles touching upon ancient religions, mythology, historical anomalies, space exploration, and esoteric subjects. The cover prominently features the question "CRISTO NACQUE IL 17 GIUGNO?" (Was Christ Born on June 17th?), suggesting a deep dive into alternative theories about the birth of Jesus.

Zoroastrianism and Ancient Beliefs

The issue begins with an exploration of Zoroastrianism, featuring an image of an ancient Zoroastrian temple near Esfahan. It highlights key concepts such as the dualistic struggle between good (Ahura Mazda) and evil (represented by a serpent, the "Aastro Serpente"), the concept of paradise (Eiren), and the influence of Zoroastrianism on later monotheistic religions like Christianity. The article poses questions about Zarathustra's true nature – visionary, fraud, or poet – and acknowledges his significant contribution in conceptualizing a God transcending humanity, thus prefiguring monotheism.

The Birth of Christ Hypothesis

An article titled "CRISTO NACQUE IL 17 GIUGNO?" by Arcana Biferri delves into the hypothesis that Jesus was born on June 17th. It connects this date to ancient traditions, particularly the summer solstice and the rebirth of the sun. The article discusses the Latin word "natalis" potentially deriving from "neos helios" (new sun) and references druidic practices of celebrating the divine birth at the summer solstice. It suggests that modern druids believe the 17th of June in 6 BC, accounting for the precession of the equinoxes, coincided with the summer solstice and the Sun entering the constellation Cancer. The article also mentions the Magi's observation of the Jupiter-Saturn conjunction and the druid Mael Korr's potential connection to Melchior.

Historical Anomalies and Prodigies

A section titled "CRONACHE E PRODIGI" (Chronicles and Prodigies) presents a chronological catalog of unusual events from ancient times up to the 1st century BC. These include phenomena such as rains of milk, blood, and white clay; sightings of multiple suns; unexplained lights in the sky; and flames emerging from the ground. Each entry is dated and briefly described, offering a historical record of reported anomalies.

Life in Space: The Skylab Mission

The article "CHE COSA FARÀ UN ASTRONAUTA IN RIPOSO?" (What Will an Astronaut Do on Leave?) focuses on the upcoming Skylab space station. It details the planned living conditions for astronauts, emphasizing the provision of personal time and recreational activities. Skylab is described as a significant step towards making long-duration space missions more habitable, offering amenities like a private bedroom, bathroom, and a library. Astronauts will work 10-hour shifts, with 8-10 hours allocated for sleep and the remainder for leisure. The article contrasts Skylab's conditions with previous missions like Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo, highlighting the increased focus on astronaut well-being and the challenges of overcrowding and sanitation in earlier spacecraft. It also mentions the types of recreational equipment planned, including playing cards, a dartboard, and soft balls, as well as a library of 36 non-flammable books.

Mythological Figure of Baal

The "BAAL un enigma mitologico" (Baal: A Mythological Enigma) section explores the multifaceted figure of Baal. It explains that Baal, meaning "lord" or "master" in Chaldean, was a title applied to various deities, monarchs, and heroes in ancient Mesopotamia, including the sun god. The article discusses different manifestations of Baal, such as Baal-Berith (Lord of the Covenant) among the Phoenicians and Carthaginians, Baal-Phegor associated with the Arabs and Madianites, and Baal-Gad (Lord of Fortune) in Syria. It notes the confusion among scholars in distinguishing between these various figures and highlights Baal's symbolic representation of generative solar force, akin to the Greek Priapus.

Philately and UFOs

"IN ORBITA CON I FRANCOBOLLI" (In Orbit with Stamps) by Phil Aster discusses the increasing presence of UFO imagery in Soviet philately. It highlights commemorative stamps related to space exploration, particularly those depicting Mars and featuring UFO designs. The article notes that these stamps are of interest to collectors of astronautical subjects and UFO-themed items. It also mentions British stamps commemorating various events, including the discovery of an Egyptian pharaoh's tomb, and touches upon the context of IRA terrorism at the time.

Cornucopia: Curiosities and Brief Notes

The "CORNUCOPIA" section presents a series of short, distinct items on various historical and cultural topics. These include the significance of the Kaaba in Mecca, a legend about Allah giving a white stone to the Archangel Gabriel, the origin of kites in China (initially called "Flying Dragons"), the discovery of ancient civilization remains in Switzerland with similarities to early Egyptian culture, the launch of a missile from Antarctica in 1967, and the astronomical work of scientists at the Kazan Observatory in the Soviet Union. It also touches upon the Pelasgi people and their alleged constructions, and the theory of Earth's formation by Dr. Harold Urey.

Letters to the Editor and "Who's Who"

The "LETTERE AL DIRETTORE" (Letters to the Editor) section features correspondence from readers. Mario Di Fazio requests more coverage of UFO phenomena, while Giuseppe Medici expresses skepticism about spiritism, questioning why it's often portrayed as fraudulent. Guido Piacenza inquires about joining the "Clypeus" group and asks about the possibility of souls reincarnating on other planets. The "CHI CERCA TROVA" (Who Seeks Finds) section lists items for sale and wanted items, including books on UFOs, occultism, and ancient history.

Bibliotecha Segreta

The "BIBLIOTECA SEGRETA" (Secret Library) section provides brief biographical notes on various historical figures associated with occultism, esotericism, and unusual knowledge. It includes entries on Giovanni Valentino Andreæ (a potential founder of the Rosicrucians), Anselmo di Parma (an astrologer), Antiochus (a monk and writer on dreams), Antonelli D. G. (a writer on spiritualism), Apuleius Lucius (a Latin writer known for "The Golden Ass"), Pietro d'Apono (a medieval alchemist and magician), and Annio di Viterbo (a scholar of ancient texts).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "Clypeus" revolve around the exploration of alternative histories, ancient religions, and unexplained phenomena. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of open inquiry, presenting various hypotheses and historical accounts while acknowledging the speculative nature of some topics, particularly regarding spiritism and reincarnation. There is a clear interest in UFOs and space exploration, reflecting the contemporary fascination with these subjects. The editorial approach seems to favor documented evidence and reasoned speculation over sensationalism, as indicated in the response to Mario Di Fazio's letter.

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• PALESTRA JOHN VIGNA: Located at Corso Dante, 73, 10126 Torino. Offers men's gymnastics classes open daily and evening Karate classes. Contact number: 65.13.79.
• milanostampa: Located at 12060 Farigliano, Cuneo. Offers services in typesetting (linotype), typography, lithography, reprints, and bookbinding (legatoria). Contact number: (0173) 7608.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The editorial stance of MEB, as presented through the "Mondi Sconosciuti" series, is to explore and explain mysterious, unexplained, and often sensational phenomena from scientific and historical perspectives. The series appears to cater to an audience interested in ufology, ancient mysteries, parapsychology, and prophecy, aiming to provide explanations and insights into these subjects, often referencing scientific inquiry and historical evidence. The publisher positions itself as a source for uncovering hidden knowledge and challenging conventional understanding.