Clypeus - 1972 - Vol 9 No 4

Magazine Overview

Title: CLYPEUS
Issue: N. 4 (41)
Volume: IX
Date: Luglio-Agosto 1972 (July-August 1972)
Publisher: CLYPEUS
Country: Italy
Language: Italian
Price: Lire 500

Cover Story: The Photo That Drove the FBI Crazy

The cover of this issue of Clypeus features a striking black and white photograph and the headline "La foto che fece impazzire l'FBI" (The photo that drove the FBI crazy). The accompanying article, written by Renzo Rossotti, questions the authenticity of this image: is it a 'fiction,' a photomontage, or documentation of a sensational event? The article references the "Rapporto Condon" (Condon Report), suggesting that American authorities made extreme efforts to ascertain the truth. The photo depicts what is described as a 'martian' who allegedly landed on Earth amidst the wreckage of a 'flying saucer.' The origin of the photo is uncertain, but it was found in the Clypeus archive. The article notes that the FBI investigated this 'most disconcerting photograph of the century.'

Rossotti recounts how the magazine had previously dedicated two pages to this subject in the Roman weekly "Orizzonti" six years prior, inviting anyone with information to come forward. The photo's negative was reportedly lost and then rediscovered. Photographers were consulted to uncover any trickery involved. The article suggests that while the image may be a fiction or photomontage, it represents a document of our era, especially as discussions about extraterrestrial visitors continue.

Further details emerge from Frank Scully's 1949 article in "Variety," which discussed "flying saucers" that had landed or crashed in the United States. Diplomat Alberto Perego, in his book "L'aviazione di altri pianeti," wrote about a 33-meter diameter disk landing near Aztec, New Mexico, on March 17, 1949, due to a malfunction. This landing occurred near secret atomic zones like Los Alamos and Albuquerque. The deserted area was immediately cordoned off by secret service agents, and eight men were urgently summoned. The occupants were described as having features similar to humans but were exceptionally short, between 1.20 and 1.40 meters tall, and wore dark blue uniforms without significant insignia. The material of the craft was described as an unknown, extremely hard metal. The bodies of the pilots were transported to an air force clinic for dissection and were found to be entirely similar to humans.

Perego also mentioned another disk landing in Arizona, near an atomic zone, with 16 deceased occupants, and a third, smaller one near Phoenix with 2 occupants. It was rumored that one pilot from the Paradise Valley incident was found alive. The article speculates if this was the 'martian' photographed. It mentions the possibility of an incubator being prepared in California to keep this being alive and even teach it English, a notion treated with amusement.

The author connects this investigation to his upcoming book about the FBI, revealing that FBI Director Hoover, in his later years, also had to investigate reports of 'martians' as a potential threat to the United States.

Analyzing the photograph itself, the 'martian' is described as about a meter tall, skeletal, covered in a strange membrane, with curious footwear and possibly a tight-fitting suit or metallic skin. The two individuals escorting the figure, clad in white trench coats and hats, are suggested to be FBI agents. The two women in the background appear astonished. The 'martian's' face is not well-lit, leading to speculation that the figure might be a puppet. The article questions the motive behind such a staged event, whether for shock, fear, or financial gain, noting that no one has demanded money for its publication.

The "Condon Report" also touched upon this photograph, dedicating a few lines to it within its 965 pages. According to the report, the photo's origin was German and it was included in Gordon W. Allen's book "Spacecraft from Beyond Three Dimensions." The CIA and FBI showed interest, but Allen reportedly demanded an exorbitant price for further information, which was not met. The magazine concludes by presenting the 'martian' as an enduring enigma and asks readers for help in solving the mystery.

The Enigma of the Nuraghi: Were They Solar Temples?

Claudio Castellacci's article explores the mystery of the Nuraghi, the ancient megalithic structures found in Sardinia. The prevailing theory until recently was that these stone towers were military fortresses built by the Sardinian people. However, the article presents a new perspective, drawing on the conclusions of Professor Carlo Maxia, Director of the Institute of Anthropological Sciences at the University of Cagliari.

The Nuraghi are described as conical towers with progressively projecting rings, forming a beehive-like structure, similar to those found among the Etruscans and Romans. Internal lighting was provided by narrow, sparse loopholes. The main towers often had smaller turrets and ramparts attached. They are scattered across the island, primarily inland, and rarely near the sea. Alongside the Nuraghi, the article mentions the "Tombe dei Giganti" (Tombs of the Giants), large, elongated burial chambers with a corbelled roof, preceded by a semi-circle, similar to Mycenaean architecture.

The etymology of 'Nuraghe' is discussed, with theories linking it to words meaning 'whirlpool' or 'ravine' in the local dialect. Another theory connects it to the Mediterranean word 'Nura,' meaning 'to dig' or 'to accumulate,' and to the toponym 'Nur,' suggesting an Indo-European origin.

During the Punic and Roman dominations, Nuraghi served various purposes, including temples, storage, and dwellings. Some located in mountainous regions were likely integrated into the Punic-Sardinian defense against Rome, with the historian Livy referring to them as 'Castra' (camps).

The article critiques the military theory of the Nuraghi. It argues that the large towers, with walls exceeding two meters in thickness, might have been fixed military constructions, while smaller ones could have served as tactical support points. However, the author finds the idea of them being purely military structures improbable, citing historical accounts that suggest they were more akin to a prince's last refuge or a castle.

The article questions the defensive capabilities of the Nuraghi, noting the lack of adequate openings for launching projectiles or for multiple defenders. The narrow loopholes were only sufficient to let in minimal light. The author argues that if they were fortresses, people would not have lived in such dark, humid, and uncomfortable conditions when villages offered better shelter. He questions what defense the Nuraghe could offer to the villagers, women, and children if the leader and his army were inside.

Economically, the article suggests that maintaining approximately 12,000 Nuraghi, along with a warrior class, would have been ruinous for a poor population.

Maxia's theory is presented: the Nuraghe is a solar temple, a megalithic religious monument, and the focal point of a community led by priestesses. Evidence supporting this includes nearby structures with perforated stones (for female fertility), solar stones, sacred wells, altars for sacrifices, and the "Tombe dei Giganti" (Tombs of the Giants) which are burial sites located near the Nuraghi. The article posits that the cult of the dead, practiced in "Domus de Jana" and "Tombe dei Giganti," was the earliest form of worship on the island. The proximity of the Nuraghe to the tomb is seen as illogical if the Nuraghe were a fortress, as it would have allowed enemies easy access to the tombs.

The article also touches upon the concept of giants, suggesting that the widespread belief in them across disparate cultures without apparent contact points to a shared ancestral memory of a mythical golden age or actual encounters with giants. This memory, both attractive and terrifying, may have influenced ancient peoples to erect monumental structures and perform sacrifices.

Some 17th-century authors are cited as viewing Nuraghi as religious structures dedicated to the cult of giants, with Vitale calling them 'Domos de orcos' (houses of giants) and Madao seeing them as 'Tombs of the Giants.'

The article strongly supports the theory that Nuraghi were temples to the sun god. It questions why a non-rich people would build around 7,000 such structures across the island if not for a mystical-religious purpose. The author suggests they were built to ward off an ancient terror, possibly related to celestial events like solar eclipses, which would have instilled great fear in prehistoric civilizations.

Other Articles and Features

• "CLYPEUS Guarisce con i colori" (CLYPEUS Heals with Colors): A brief mention of an article on color therapy.
• "Gli 'extraterrestri' di Berlino-ovest" (The 'Extraterrestrials' of West Berlin): An article by C. Bernacchia and R. D'Amico.
• "Il masso di Orlando" (The Stone of Orlando): An article by Roberto D'Amico.
• "Un 'disco volante' che rassomiglia a Saturno" (A 'flying saucer' that resembles Saturn): An article by Renato Vesco.
• "Vogliono bucare la Terra per scoprirne i segreti" (They want to drill the Earth to discover its secrets): An article by Diemme.
• "...e nacquero gli dei" (...and the gods were born): An article by Gianni V. Settimo.
• "Era l'aliante dei faraoni?" (Was it the pharaohs' glider?): An article by Giviesse.
• "L'ambasciatore" (The Ambassador): An article by Pi Erre.
• "Due francobolli e un delitto" (Two stamps and a crime): An article by Phil Aster.
• "Cornucopia": An article by Electra De Andreis.
• "Biblioteca segreta" (Secret Library): An article by Celto Bardo.

Observatory Section

The "Osservatorio" section includes "Lettere al direttore" (Letters to the editor), "Hanno scritto..." (They have written...), and "Chi cerca trova" (He who seeks finds).

Editorial and Publication Details

The magazine is founded on the principle of being a monthly review of the unusual. The responsible director and founder is Gianni V. Settimo, with Renzo Rossotti as the chief editor. The cover art is by Marco Rostagno. The publication details include copyright information, authorization from the Tribunal of Turin, subscription rates (Lire 4,000 for the calendar year 1972), and printing information (Stampato dalla Milanostampa - Farigliano (Cuneo)). The distributor is Agenzia Carlo Magli in Turin.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Clypeus positions itself as a publication dedicated to the "insolito" (unusual), covering a wide range of topics including UFOs, alleged extraterrestrial encounters, ancient mysteries, archaeology, and unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and evidence while encouraging reader participation in solving these mysteries. The magazine seems to favor exploring alternative explanations for historical and contemporary events, often challenging conventional scientific or historical interpretations. There is a clear interest in the intersection of science, history, and the paranormal.

This issue of Clypeus, dated March-April 1971, delves into a variety of intriguing topics, from ancient mysteries to modern scientific and pseudoscientific investigations. The cover prominently features the headline "Gli strani omuncoli usciti dall'astronave" (The strange little men who came out of the spaceship), hinting at extraterrestrial encounters.

Ancient Sardinian Civilizations and Solar Eclipses

The first major article explores the connection between ancient Sardinian civilizations, particularly the Nuragic period, and solar eclipses. It cites astronomical data from Oppolzer's 'Canon der Finsternisse' to show a high frequency of solar eclipses in Sardinia between 1130 BC and 553 BC, with one occurring approximately every 33 years, and another period with one every 22 years. The author, referencing Professor Maxia, suggests that these natural phenomena, lacking scientific explanation at the time, were interpreted through magic and the cult of the supernatural. The terror associated with eclipses, possibly linked to a memory of a cosmic cataclysm, led the Nuragic people to build numerous temples, or nuraghi, to perform rituals aimed at 'helping' the sun not to die. The article draws a parallel with the Aztec civilization's daily human sacrifices to ensure the sun's survival, contrasting it with the likely animal sacrifices of the Nuragics, possibly inferred from the discovery of an underground temple in the Grotte di Santadi.

UFO Encounters in Venezuela

Two separate incidents from Venezuela are detailed. The first, on December 9, 1953, involves two young workers, Lorenzo Flores and Jesús Gomez, who reported seeing a luminous disk near Carora. Four hairy, meter-tall beings emerged and attempted to drag Jesús Gomez towards the object. Flores' rifle broke when he tried to defend his friend. The police investigated, finding strange footprints and smelling sulfur. The witnesses were found to be sane and their accounts consistent. The second incident, on November 29, 1954, describes Gustavo Gonzales, a driver, encountering a disk-shaped, incandescent object hovering above the ground in Petare. A small, hairy being with brilliant eyes emerged. Gonzales briefly grabbed the being, but it broke free. Two other similar beings then blinded him with a light beam. The object and beings disappeared. The beings are described as peloso (hairy), without nose or mouth, with round heads and brilliant eyes.

Chromotherapy: Healing with Colors

An interview with Benedetto Lavagna, described as a pioneer of chromotherapy, explores his method of healing through colors. Lavagna explains that color therapy is not magic but a mechanical process based on the frequency of color vibrations, which can enter into harmony with cellular vibrations. He states that disease is a rupture of this harmonic frequency. Colors can act as equilibrators, restoring balance. He details the application of colors using colored silk fabrics, with cold colors (violet, indigo, blue, dark green) used to disperse excesses and warm colors (light green, yellow, orange, red) to tonify deficiencies. He acknowledges that the 'suggestion' factor is often seen as a disadvantage in his field, as people expect more conventional therapies. However, he cites Professor Nielsen of Copenhagen, a Nobel laureate, who demonstrated the independent power of colors on plants and animals.

The Ummo Case

The magazine also addresses the intriguing 'Ummo case.' It discusses a study by collaborators Claudio Bernacchia and Roberto d'Amico, who scientifically investigated the possibility that messages received from 'Ummo,' purportedly from extraterrestrials living on Earth, might be genuine. The article references a letter received from Berlin-West in August 1969, which was published in 'Clypeus' (issue 33). The Ummites claim to be an older, more advanced civilization with a different social and economic structure, and a religious belief in a Creator. They explain their system of communication and their decision not to interfere directly with Earth's evolution. The article includes calculations based on Kepler's third law to estimate the orbital period and circumference of Ummo's planet around its star, 'Jumma.' It also touches upon the Ummites' duodecimal number system, contrasting it with Earth's decimal system.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Clypeus demonstrates a consistent editorial stance favoring the exploration of unconventional theories and phenomena. It bridges ancient history with modern UFOlogy and alternative healing methods, suggesting a belief in the interconnectedness of various unexplained aspects of reality. The magazine encourages open-mindedness towards different evolutionary paths and scientific approaches, even those that deviate from mainstream understanding. The inclusion of detailed scientific calculations, astronomical data, and references to scientific figures like Kepler and Nobel laureate Professor Nielsen lends an air of credibility to the more speculative content.

This issue of 'Il Masso di Orlando' (The Stone of Orlando), dated XXVIII and published by Corrado Tedeschi Editore, delves into a blend of historical legends, scientific endeavors, and UFO phenomena. The magazine features articles on the folklore surrounding a split stone in Italy, the ambitious 'Project Mohole' aimed at exploring Earth's mantle, and a detailed account of a UFO sighting in Argentina.

The Legend of the 'Masso di Orlando'

The article "Presso Borgone di Susa c'è una grossa pietra legata, per tradizione, al più famoso dei paladini di Carlo Magno" by R. D'Amico explores the legend of the 'Masso di Orlando' (Orlando's Stone) located near Borgone di Susa, Italy. This large stone, characterized by a distinct split, is traditionally believed to have been cleaved by the sword of the paladin Orlando, a renowned knight of Charlemagne. The text references Orlando's legendary strength and his sword, Durendal. It also connects the legend to literary works such as Boiardo's 'Orlando Innamorato' and Ariosto's 'Orlando Furioso,' quoting a passage from the latter that describes Orlando splitting a stone. The article also considers alternative explanations for the legend, including the possibility that it relates to the coat of arms of the counts of Villarfocchiardo or even a depiction of Saint George. It suggests that the legend might be a popular memory of the passage of the famous French paladins through the region, possibly linked to historical events involving Charlemagne's campaigns in Italy.

Project Mohole: Drilling to the Earth's Mantle

Another significant feature, "VOGLIONO BUCARE LA TERRA PER SCOPRIRNE I SEGRETI" (They Want to Drill the Earth to Discover Its Secrets), details the 'Project Mohole.' This ambitious scientific undertaking proposed by a group of American scientists aimed to drill a 10-kilometer deep well into the Earth's mantle, a region comprising four-fifths of the planet's mass. The project intended to bring back samples of unknown substances and gain unprecedented knowledge about the Earth's interior. The article explains that the drilling would be conducted from a ship in the Atlantic Ocean, specifically targeting a thinner crustal layer beneath the sea. It mentions that the project was named 'Mohole' after the Mohorovičić discontinuity, the boundary between the Earth's crust and mantle, discovered by scientist Andrija Mohorovicic. The article highlights the technological challenges and the potential scientific and industrial benefits of this deep-sea drilling operation.

UFO Sighting in Mendoza, Argentina

The article "UN 'DISCO VOLANTE' CHE RASSOMIGLIA A SATURNO" by Renato Vesco reports on a UFO sighting that occurred in Mendoza, Argentina, on May 24, 1971. The object was described as a 'flying saucer' resembling the planet Saturn, with a globular body surrounded by a thin equatorial ring. The sighting was witnessed by Professor Julio Suarez Marzal and Dr. E. Walter Griehl. The UFO was estimated to be about two meters thick and six meters in diameter. It exhibited unusual behavior, including oscillation and precise movements, and appeared to focus a telescopic 'visor' on the parabolic antennas of the Central Post Office. The article speculates on the advanced technology of the craft, questioning why such advanced vehicles would employ devices similar to those invented on Earth decades prior. It also touches upon the 'Ummo' phenomenon, a mysterious organization that has been the subject of UFO investigations.

Other Content and Themes

The issue also includes a section on the 'Flying Saucer Review,' providing subscription details for the publication. The content generally reflects an interest in unexplained phenomena, historical mysteries, and scientific exploration, with a particular focus on UFOs and their potential implications.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to explore the intersection of folklore, history, and modern mysteries, particularly UFO phenomena. There's a consistent theme of seeking explanations for unexplained events, whether through legends, scientific inquiry, or the investigation of alleged extraterrestrial contact. The editorial stance seems open to exploring these topics, presenting detailed accounts and analyses, while also acknowledging the speculative nature of much of the subject matter. The inclusion of both ancient legends and contemporary scientific projects suggests a broad interest in humanity's quest for knowledge and understanding of the unknown.

Title: Gazzetta del Popolo
Issue Date: August 13, 1972
Character: This issue of the Italian newspaper Gazzetta del Popolo presents a diverse range of articles, blending current events, historical speculation, scientific discoveries, and paranormal phenomena.

Articles

The Ghost of Arnaldo Mussolini Announced the Ruin of Fascism?

This article details a spiritualist session that allegedly took place in Rome in the winter of 1941. Through a medium named Maria Iride Gionchetti, the spirit of Arnaldo Mussolini, brother of Benito Mussolini, is said to have communicated. The spirit reportedly conveyed a dramatic message, urging the group to inform Benito Mussolini about the dire consequences of the ongoing war. The message described Italy being drenched in blood, facing invasion from both the south and north, and becoming a continuous battlefield. Arnaldo Mussolini allegedly warned of terrifying new weapons, more destructive than poison gas or bacteriological agents, and emphasized the need to stop the war before it was too late to save the empire. He expressed sorrow for Italy's involvement in a war for which it was unprepared and suggested that diplomacy, dialogue, and mutual understanding could lead to peace.

Raul Boggi, a scholar of parapsychology, revealed these details years later, stating that the entity identified itself as Arnaldo Mussolini and insisted on speaking to his brother. The spirit also mentioned that the entity's 'self' had analyzed the group's 'I' and was confident they would keep the secret and serve the country honestly. The entity expressed hope for a return of the dove of peace through diplomacy and understanding.

The Mohole Project: Drilling into the Earth's Core

This section discusses the ambitious Mohole Project, which aimed to drill through the Earth's crust and into the mantle. The project planned to use a cable system connected to a platform on a ship, allowing for the retrieval of "cores" – samples of sedimentary layers, basalt, and mantle material. The article highlights the challenges, including high temperatures expected to reach 200°C, but notes that oil wells have been drilled at even higher temperatures. The technique of "wireline coring" was to be employed, where a tool would be lowered to extract samples without interrupting the drilling. The expedition was expected to yield surprising revelations about Earth's history, potentially shedding light on the evolution of life through marine fossils found in the sedimentary layers. It was also anticipated that the project would provide information on oil deposits and improve drilling techniques.

An Airplane from Four Thousand Years Ago: Was it the Pharaohs' Glider?

This article explores the possibility of ancient flight, referencing a discovery in the Cairo Museum: a 18-centimeter wooden model resembling a bird but with aerodynamic features suggesting it was a glider or unpowered aircraft. Dated to the 3rd or 4th century BC, the model has wings similar to modern gliders and a vertical tail, with no indication of feathers. The article questions if this could be an "aliante dei faraoni" (Pharaohs' glider). It mentions that the "Times" of London and the French publication "L'Express" reported on this finding, suggesting that ancient civilizations might have possessed flight technology. A replica of the statuette was tested and found to fly perfectly, raising questions about ancient Egyptian depictions of strange birds on chariots and sarcophagi.

Reflections and Hypotheses on Mythology: We Were Visited by Gods?

This section delves into the origins of myths across different cultures. It suggests that myths often stem from a primitive understanding of the unknown, which was explained through real-world phenomena that primitive minds couldn't comprehend. The article posits that early humans, encountering beings or events they couldn't explain, attributed them to divine intervention. It specifically discusses the idea that ancient myths of gods who flew or commanded light might have been inspired by encounters with extraterrestrial visitors or advanced technology, likening them to "flying machines" or "UFOs ante litteram."

The Ambassador

This is a science fiction story about an alien named Rokma from Retha-19, who lands on a planet to establish diplomatic relations. Rokma's mission is to make contact with the indigenous inhabitants, described as having a civilization that had begun attempts at space flight. The story details Rokma's initial observations of the planet and its inhabitants, noting similarities to its home planet. The narrative takes a dark turn when Rokma encounters a large creature and is seemingly attacked, ending with Rokma falling to the ground in a pool of blood.

The Strange Hare

This short piece describes a hunter, Gaspare Bettelli, who shoots a hare and notices something peculiar about its paws: they resemble small hands. He finds this strange but is more concerned with whether the hare will be tasty.

We, Deputies of the College of the Holy Cross Brotherhood

This is a declaration from a group called the "Fratelli dei Rosa + Croce" (Brothers of the Rose + Cross), stating their presence in Turin, both visible and invisible. They express their intention to guide humanity away from mortal error through their spiritual teachings.

They Wrote... Flying Saucers Photographed at Night

This article reports on a UFO sighting and photograph taken by José de Oliveira in Campinas, Brazil, on July 27, 1972. The object, described as a "flying saucer," exhibited a horizontal trajectory and a speed greater than a jet plane but less than a meteor. The article notes that the photo shows two flying saucers, one in the foreground and another in the background, and that the event is being investigated. The report also mentions a similar sighting in Campinas previously.

Sensational Discovery in Finland: They Refuse to Excavate a Prehistoric City to Avoid Damaging It

This article details the discovery of an entire Stone Age village in the northernmost part of Finland by Professor Aarni Eraeesko. The site is exceptionally rich in artifacts and historical information. However, due to the primitive excavation methods currently available, the archaeologist has decided not to proceed with digging. He believes that future generations, with more advanced techniques, will be able to excavate the site without damaging its invaluable contents. The village is believed to belong to the "Komša" civilization, which inhabited the region after the last ice age. The discovery is significant because the origins of the Komša civilization are still unknown.

Meteorites: A "Test" to Discover Life in Space

This piece reports on Professor Jeffrey Bada's announcement of a chemical procedure to confirm the existence of life in space. Bada applied this test to a meteorite that fell in Australia in 1969 and concluded that the amino acids found within it were not of terrestrial origin. Amino acids are fundamental to protein formation, which is essential for life. Bada's theory challenges the previous assumption that these molecules were collected from Earth's atmosphere during the meteorite's descent. The test also has the potential to date organic remains up to forty thousand years old, surpassing the carbon-14 dating method.

Bold Thesis in a Simon Wiesenthal Essay: Columbus, a Jewish Navigator, Sought the Promised Land

This article discusses Simon Wiesenthal's upcoming book, which proposes that Christopher Columbus was Jewish and that his voyage to America was not to find a new route to the Indies, but to discover a land where Jewish descendants, who had escaped Babylonian captivity, had settled. Wiesenthal claims to have found documents supporting this theory, suggesting that the expedition was financed by converted Jews from the court of Isabella the Catholic, who feared expulsion from Spain. The article also references previous scholars who have suggested Jewish origins for Columbus or Jewish financiers for his voyage.

"Sorry" Finally on Sale!

This is an announcement for the launch of "SORRY," a new comic magazine. It details the publication's preparation, cost, subscription details, and includes information about bonus items for subscribers, such as lithographs and limited-edition albums. The announcement apologizes for the delay in publication and highlights the challenges of producing such a magazine.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue of "Gazzetta del Popolo" exhibits a strong interest in unexplained phenomena, historical mysteries, and scientific advancements. There's a recurring theme of questioning established narratives, whether it's the origins of myths, the true purpose of historical voyages, or the potential for extraterrestrial life. The articles blend factual reporting with speculative hypotheses, particularly in the areas of UFOs, ancient civilizations, and spiritualism. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting intriguing possibilities and encouraging readers to consider alternative explanations for historical events and natural phenomena. The inclusion of science fiction and paranormal accounts alongside scientific and historical reports suggests a broad editorial scope aimed at engaging readers with a variety of thought-provoking content.

This issue of "FILATELIA INSOLITA" features a prominent cover story titled "Due francobolli e un delitto" (Two stamps and a crime), focusing on the unsolved murder of Rosemarie Nitribitt, who was assassinated on November 1, 1957. The article highlights the appearance of two peculiar commemorative stamps issued on the tenth anniversary of her death, which the police investigated without success.

The Rosemarie Nitribitt Case

The central theme revolves around the enduring mystery of Rosemarie Nitribitt's murder. The article details how, on the tenth anniversary of her death in 1968, two unusual stamps were issued, intended as a commemoration. These stamps, described as "almost pornographic," depicted explicit imagery, including a nude woman with a dagger. The German police investigated the origin of these stamps, suspecting they might be linked to the crime or intended to cause embarrassment. However, no connection was found, and the stamps became highly sought-after collector's items, with their value increasing significantly.

Rosemarie Nitribitt was a 27-year-old woman from Frankfurt who became a well-known figure in high society, associating with wealthy industrialists. Her murder, by strangulation, was never solved, and nothing was stolen from her apartment, leading to speculation about motives such as blackmail or industrial espionage. Heinz Pohlmann, an acquaintance, was arrested and charged but maintained his innocence. The police have kept the case file open, awaiting new leads.

The article notes that the stamps, one red and one green, both valued at 0.30 DM, were regularly canceled by the postal service. An employee's surprise at their design brought them to wider attention. The stamps were compared by some to the Spanish stamp for Goya's "Maja," a comparison the author disputes, finding the Nitribitt stamps to be crude and obscene.

Diverse Investigations and Mysteries

Beyond the central crime, the magazine explores a variety of other intriguing topics:

Archaeology and Anthropology

• Ancient Fish Residues: Archaeological excavations in Peru and the US "Middle West" uncovered fish fossils dating back to between 100 BC and 400 AD. Analysis revealed mercury levels comparable to those found in fish today, suggesting mercury has been present in fish for millennia.
• Soviet Rock Art: Soviet scientists discovered a unique engraving on the Hantau mountains in Kazakhstan, dating back to 10,000 BC. The engraving depicts a shaman surrounded by figures of bison, deer, and felines, bearing similarities to French cave art.
• Siberian Lake Monster: Since 1964, a giant, prehistoric-looking monster has reportedly been sighted in Lake Khaiyr in Siberia. A geologist from Yakutsk provided a description and a sketch of the creature, characterized by a small head, long neck, and a large blue-black body with a dorsal fin.
• Ancient Tools: An archaeological find near the Sviaga River, a tributary of the Volga in the Soviet Union, uncovered a 5,000-year-old fishing net made of intertwined tree trunks. An accompanying stone axe suggests its use in constructing the net. The artifacts were remarkably preserved due to thick layers of peat.

Astronomy and Cosmology

• Solar Wind Propulsion: Professor Hannes Alfven proposed using solar wind—the stream of gases emitted by the Sun—as a propulsion method for future spacecraft, noting its high velocity.
• Cosmic Iron Block: A block of pure iron weighing 50 kg, believed to be of cosmic origin, was found at the "Indighirzoloto" gold mining company in Yakutia, USSR. It was named "Elga 2," following the discovery of a similar meteorite, "Elga 1," weighing 25 kg.
• Universe Age: Astronomer George Abell calculated that galaxies have traveled twice the previously estimated distances since the Big Bang, suggesting the universe's age could be between ten and twenty billion years.
• Mercury's Rotation: Contrary to earlier beliefs, Mercury does not always show the same face to the Sun. Radar observations indicate it completes one rotation for every two orbits around the Sun, meaning a Mercurian day is equivalent to two Mercurian years.
• Meteorite Diamonds: Diamonds were found inside a meteorite that fell in Finland. The meteorite, described as plum-sized and weighing about 1.5 kg, contained a rare type of diamond.
• Soviet Star Catalog: Soviet astronomers compiled a new catalog of 870 stars in the Northern Hemisphere, significantly improving the precision of astronomical observations.

Biology and Geology

• Revived Microorganisms: Soviet geochemist N. Chudinov successfully revived microorganisms that had been dormant in potassium crystals for 250 million years, demonstrating their ability to survive in a state of anabiosis.
• Preserved Bodies: In a crypt in Bremen Cathedral, Germany, bodies interred between 10 and 300 years prior showed no signs of decomposition, a phenomenon attributed to unknown causes.
• Ancient Footprint: A remarkably clear human footprint, estimated to be 500,000 years old, was discovered in Tanzania, East Africa. The small size suggests it may belong to a child or adolescent.
• Earth's Increasing Mass: The Earth gains two to five million tons annually from meteoritic dust, increasing its weight over geological time.

Historical and Esoteric Topics

• Monkey Funeral: In Rajk, India, a monkey that died from electrocution was given a lavish funeral, with hundreds of villagers attending and organizing a collection for a temple in its honor, recognizing it as an incarnation of Hanuman.
• The Three Magi: While traditionally depicted as three, various catacomb depictions show the Magi in numbers of two, four, six, or even twelve, questioning the traditional count.
• Prophecy of the European Flowers: During the demolition of a portal in Palos de Moguer, Portugal, a scroll was found containing phonetic and ideographic signs known as the "Prophecy of the European Flowers." These prophecies, primarily concerning Italy, have historically proven accurate.
• Greek Mythology and Ants: According to Greek legend, the Myrmidons, who fought in the Trojan War, were descended from ants, transformed into humans by Zeus to repopulate a devastated land.
• English Textile Mill Ghost: A ghost, believed to be that of a Protestant pastor who died in 1938, was reportedly seen at a textile mill in Standish, England.
• The Count of Cagliostro: New information suggests that the legendary Count of Cagliostro may not have died in prison in 1795 as believed, but might have escaped and died free, a fact allegedly kept secret due to political repercussions.
• Etruscan Mysteries: Mario Signorelli's book explores the enigmatic Etruscan civilization, focusing on their history, sacred sites, and buildings in the Viterbo region. He suggests they settled in an area rich in thermal springs.
• Astrology Manual: Federico Capone's "Piccolo manuale di Astrologia" (Small Manual of Astrology) offers a guide to zodiac signs, decans, and astrological degrees, aiming to help readers understand their personalities.
• Book Sales and Searches: The "Chi cerca trova" (Who seeks finds) section lists books for sale and items sought by readers, including works on radio technology, electronics, and flying saucers.

Letters to the Editor

• John F. Kennedy as an Extraterrestrial: A reader inquires about the theory that John F. Kennedy was an extraterrestrial and the claim that he is still alive, paralyzed, and held on Skorpios island. The editor clarifies these are science fiction narratives and journalistic fabrications.
• Apollo 15 Stamp "Scam": A reader asks Phil Aster about the "Apollo 15" stamp issue, questioning if it was a scam. Aster explains that while astronauts may have carried extra items for sale to benefit charities, it wasn't a scam but potentially an illicit activity due to NASA regulations.
• Mysterious Stelae: A reader inquires about mysterious stelae in San Damiano d'Asti and Peveragno. The response details the San Damiano stela, identified as a 1400 AD tombstone for Emanuele Scarampi and his son, likely representing legal codes rather than magical doctrines. The "Mysterious Knight" of Peveragno, a sculpture on a column, is discussed, with its origins and meaning still unknown, possibly dating to the 7th-8th century AD.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of mystery, the unexplained, and historical enigmas. It delves into unsolved crimes, paranormal phenomena, archaeological curiosities, and esoteric subjects. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and historical accounts without necessarily endorsing them, often highlighting the enduring nature of these mysteries. The inclusion of diverse topics, from philately and crime to astronomy and ancient history, suggests a broad interest in the unusual and the unexplained.

This document is a promotional material from 'la società editrice MEB' (MEB publishing house) presenting their book series titled 'MONDI SCONOSCIUTI' (Unknown Worlds). The material details four specific books within this series, highlighting their content, authors, and physical specifications.

Featured Books in the 'Mondi Sconosciuti' Series

Cittadini delle Tenebre (Citizens of Darkness)

• Author: Peter Kolosimo
• Content: Explores phenomena such as voices from the past, images from the future, invisible powers that can move objects, terrifying presences from unknown dimensions, and humans traveling through space and time. It aims to explain these events in light of science, covering disconcerting phenomena.
• Details: 216 pages, L. 2,500.

I Figli del Sole (The Children of the Sun)

• Author: Marcel F. Homet
• Content: Discusses monumental traces of unknown races, astonishing cave engravings, and signs of a great lost civilization. It also touches upon the survivors of a cosmic catastrophe that destroyed Atlantis. The book includes a preface by Peter Kolosimo.
• Details: 264 pages, 128 illustrations, L. 3,200.

Esperimenti di Suggestione Mentale (Experiments in Mental Suggestion)

• Author: Leonid Vasiljev
• Content: Investigates the existence of a 'radio' within the brain capable of transmitting and receiving signals, the form of energy used for these transmissions, and surprising experiments by Russian scientists from the 'Istituto del cervello' (Brain Institute). It covers telepathic commands at a distance and the transmission of images and messages over thousands of kilometers.
• Presenter: Dr. Massimo Inardi
• Details: 302 pages, 15 illustrations, L. 3,200.

Centurie e Presagi di Nostradamus (Centuries and Omens of Nostradamus)

• Translator/Interpreter: Renucio Boscolo
• Content: Claims to have found the long-sought 'key' to Nostradamus's prophecies, making them clear and understandable. It suggests that readers can now comprehend future events due to this unprecedented and irrefutable testimony.
• Details: 256 pages, 5 illustrations, L. 3,000.

Book Specifications and Ordering Information

All volumes in the 'Mondi Sconosciuti' series are described as being hardbound in 'balakron' with gold impressions and a coated, plasticized dust jacket. Interested readers can order these books from major bookstores or directly from MEB. Direct orders can be paid for either by cash on delivery (payment to the postman) or by advance payment. The MEB office is located at Corso Dante 73/C1, 10126 Torino.

Ancillary Advertisements

The document also includes advertisements for two unrelated businesses:

• PALESTRA JOHN VIGNA: A gym offering men's gymnastics classes daily and evening Karate classes at Corso Dante, 73, 10126 Torino. Contact number: 65.13.79.
• milanostampa: A printing and binding service offering typesetting, typography, lithography, reprints, and bookbinding. Located at 12060 Farigliano, Cuneo. Contact number: (0173) 7608.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance of MEB, as presented through the 'Mondi Sconosciuti' series, is focused on exploring the unexplained, the paranormal, and speculative aspects of science, history, and prophecy. The series aims to bring potentially controversial or fringe topics to a wider audience, presenting them with scientific or historical context, and offering detailed explorations of subjects like ancient civilizations, psychic phenomena, and prophetic interpretations. The emphasis is on providing comprehensive and well-presented information, as indicated by the quality of the bookbinding and the authors chosen.