Clypeus Piemonte Insolito - 1976 No 43

Magazine Overview

Title: Clypeus
Issue: N. 43 (New Series N. 1)
Volume: XI
Date: March 1976
Publisher: MEB
Country: Italy
Language: Italian

This issue of "Clypeus" marks its return, described as a periodical review of unusual chronicles of Piemonte, focusing on myths, legends, folklore, and archeology. The magazine aims to continue its discourse on the unusual aspects of the Piedmont region, catering to a growing number of enthusiasts.

Editorial

The editorial, titled "Editoriale," announces the return of "Clypeus" with a renewed focus on the "unusual Piemonte." It highlights the region's rich history, legends, myths, and archeology. The editorial acknowledges the significant interest in these topics among the region's inhabitants and expresses the magazine's commitment to exploring these subjects. It invites readers to contribute their insights and suggestions, aiming to foster a collaborative exploration of the region's mysteries. The editorial emphasizes the magazine's regional, specifically Piedmontese, dimension and its commitment to its readers.

Articles and Features

UFO: Nuovi Avvistamenti nel Cielo del Piemonte (UFO: New Sightings in the Sky of Piemonte)

This article by Giordano Bruni discusses recent UFO sightings in Piemonte, noting a tendency for these phenomena to occur in winter. It recounts a specific sighting on Saturday, November 22, where witnesses observed a cigar-shaped object with red and green ends, emitting white light and green flashes, moving silently at an altitude of 200-300 meters. The object's shape was described as star-like with four points. The article also mentions a previous sighting over Torino on October 30, where a luminous object traveled from Southeast to Northwest. A detailed account from a resident of Sassi describes an object that could be compared to the cigar-shaped one seen in Val di Susa. The article connects these sightings to a powerful explosion heard in the Val di Susa area on the morning of November 22, suggesting a possible link.

The article further references a July incident in France involving a luminous sphere with a greenish halo that moved in a zig-zag pattern and exploded. It also touches upon other UFO sightings, including one in South Africa in 1930 and another in France in 1965. The author notes that while psychological factors can contribute to UFO reports, the increasing number of detailed observations from Piemontese witnesses makes it harder to dismiss these phenomena. Bruni advocates for the open acceptance and study of UFO phenomena by authorities, citing the example of the French Gendarmerie Nationale's extensive documentation.

Invito al Turismo Regionale: Limone Piemonte (Invitation to Regional Tourism: Limone Piemonte)

This article explores Limone Piemonte as a tourist destination. Located at 1000 meters altitude, it offers 90 kilometers of ski slopes in winter and opportunities for long walks in summer. The article delves into the town's history, mentioning its possible Greek origin, its past as a village raided by Saracens in 906, its establishment as a free commune in 1205, and its later incorporation into the County of Tenda. It highlights the "Statuti" granted in 1550, which contained 170 articles detailing legal guarantees for the town. The article also touches upon the town's historical hospitality, dating back to 1809 when Pope Pius VII stayed there. It describes the town's historical center, its churches, the "convento" altar, and numerous fountains made from local stone. The surrounding mountains offer opportunities for alpinism, ski-alpinism, and speleology. The article mentions the "Valle delle Maraviglie" and Monte Bego, known for prehistoric life and scientific interest. It also notes the availability of various sports facilities.

Sulle Tracce dei Templari (On the Trail of the Templars)

This section, authored by Bianca Capone, is a letter to the editor, Gianni V. Settimo, recounting a UFO sighting experienced by her daughter, Daria. The sighting occurred near Limone on the road between Vernante and Limone. Three luminous spheres, emitting yellowish light and appearing half the diameter of the full moon, were observed moving horizontally. They merged into one sphere and then separated again. The objects disappeared suddenly and reappeared briefly near the Camping site, fading out with reddish reflections. Capone notes the unusual behavior of the objects, including their merging, separating, and sudden disappearances.

La Gerla (The Basket)

This section features an article by Luciana Monticone titled "I Grandi Piemontesi della Parapsicologia: Linda Gazzera" (Great Piemontesians of Parapsychology: Linda Gazzera). This article is not detailed in the provided OCR, but it indicates a focus on parapsychology within the region.

L'Ufologia Italiana è Nata a Torino (Italian Ufology Was Born in Torino)

Authored by Roberto Pinotti, this article likely discusses the origins and development of ufology in Italy, with a specific focus on Torino as a key location.

Other Content

The magazine also includes a section on "Redazione" (Editorial Staff), listing editors and collaborators. It also features a "Sommario" (Table of Contents) outlining the articles. The issue includes information about the magazine's copyright, registration details, and submission guidelines. Additionally, there are advertisements for MEB publications, including books on "Calligaris: Precursore di una Nuova Era," "I Miei Viaggi Fuori dal Corpo" by Robert A. Monroe, "I Poteri dell'Ipnosi" by Jean Dauven, and "UFO: Operazione Cavallo di Troia" by John A. Keel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Clypeus" strongly emphasizes the "unusual" or "insolito" aspects of the Piemonte region. The recurring themes include UFO sightings, local legends, folklore, and archeological mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry and a desire to explore these often-overlooked aspects of regional history and phenomena. The magazine positions itself as a platform for enthusiasts and researchers, encouraging contributions and aiming to document and disseminate information on these subjects. There is a clear interest in ufology, with multiple articles and book reviews dedicated to the topic, and a particular focus on the Piemonte region as a site of significant unexplained events. The magazine also promotes regional tourism, highlighting Limone Piemonte as a place of historical and natural interest.

This issue of "Cittadini delle Tenebre" from November 1975, published by MEB, delves into a variety of intriguing topics, blending historical research with contemporary interests in the paranormal and the unusual. The magazine features articles on the development of Limone as a winter sports destination, historical investigations into the Knights Templar in Piedmont, and an in-depth interview with the director of MEB, a publishing house specializing in "unusual" literature.

Limone: A Developing Winter Resort

The issue opens with a piece on the winter sports scene in Limone, highlighting its historical roots in traditional snow sports and its official establishment as a ski club in 1909. The article details the unification of ski slopes, the creation of the "Riserva Bianca," and the town's preparation to host the Italian Men's Alpine Ski Championships in February 1976. It emphasizes the positive impact of skiing on the local economy and tourism, noting the exceptional snow conditions that can last from late September to late May. The author expresses good wishes for the town's continued success in attracting visitors.

In Search of the Templars in Turin and Moncalieri

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to tracing the presence of the Knights Templar in the Piedmont region, specifically in Turin and Moncalieri. Based on historical documents and the writings of figures like Count Ponziglione and Abbot Nasi, the article explores the Templars' properties, including churches and houses, in areas such as San Solutore, Vanchiglia, and the hills of San Martino. It discusses the challenges in precisely locating these sites due to the scarcity and condition of historical records. The text references a 1208 sentence by Bishop Giacomo concerning disputes involving the Hospitallers and Ugone, the provost of Ulzio, with Templars from Turin mentioned as witnesses. Further evidence comes from 17th-century manuscripts in the Royal Library of Turin, which refer to a Templar house known as San Severo. The article details a 1278 contract involving the Abbot of San Solutore and Ysnardo, the preceptor of San Severo, and a 1418 declaration by the preceptor of the former Templar manor of San Leonardo di Chieri, Eusebio Verneii, who stated that the church and house of San Severo fell under his jurisdiction. The location of San Severo is discussed, with possibilities ranging from Corso Cairoli to Via Po. A 1474 document mentions the delegation of the priories of San Severo and Santa Margherita to Fra' Antonio di Ruore. The article also touches upon the Templars' connection to Testona, a town that was destroyed in 1229. It suggests that Moncalieri was built by the inhabitants of Testona and that the Templars owned property there, including the church and hospital of Sant'Egidio, possibly marking their first establishment in Piedmont. This property reportedly remained with the Templars until 1312, when their assets were transferred to the Knights of Rhodes. The church of Sant'Egidio, though altered, still exists, with a marble plaque commemorating its restoration in 1920.

Interview with Achille Brusati of MEB Publishing

The magazine features an interview with Dr. Achille Brusati, director of MEB, a publishing house known for its specialization in "unusual" topics. Brusati explains the rationale behind MEB's focus, citing personal interest and the realization that these "occult" phenomena are real and offer new perspectives. He discusses MEB's book series: "Collana Mondi Sconosciuti" (Unknown Worlds), which provides information; "Viaggi nel Mistero" (Journeys into Mystery), offering practical manuals; and the upcoming "Ricerche d'Avanguardia" (Avant-Garde Research), intended for highly specialized texts on topics like tellurism, metatronics, and cosmic consciousness. Brusati dismisses the term "parapsychology" as outdated and emphasizes the revolutionary nature of the content in "Ricerche d'Avanguardia." He highlights successful titles from "Mondi Sconosciuti," including "Cittadini delle Tenebre" by Peter Kolosimo and "I Figli del Sole" by Prof. Homet, as well as works by Renucio Boscolo and Robert A. Monroe. MEB also promotes young Italian authors. Brusati announces the launch of the "Saga Collana" for fantasy and science fiction, aiming to be a leader in the genre, and mentions plans for expanding into more traditional narrative and essay genres.

Historical Notes and Discoveries

Another section, "La Gerla: Notizie Varie dal Piemonte" (The Basket: Various News from Piedmont), curated by Luciana Monticone, presents several historical and natural history items.

One article details a lecture by engineer Teresio Micheletti on the historical and archaeological studies of the ancient "Bessa" gold mine near Ivrea. Micheletti's upcoming book, "L'immensa miniera d'oro dei Salassi," aims to provide a comprehensive account based on ancient sources like Plinio il Vecchio, Strabone, Polibio, and Diodoro Siculo. He challenges existing timelines, suggesting the mine's exploitation began in the 3rd millennium BC and ended in 40 BC, rather than the previously accepted 3rd century BC to 3rd century BC. The article also discusses the advanced mining techniques used, including a large water collection basin and an extensive canal system, with the bridge-aqueduct of Pondel being a potential remnant. Micheletti also explores the origins of the name "Vittimula," the capital of the Salassi, linking it to Sanskrit.

Another piece reports on the restoration of frescoes in the Gothic church of San Pietro in Avigliana, dating back to the 12th-15th centuries. The restoration, led by Professor Fiume and supervised by Professor Mazzini, revealed significant historical details, including medieval costumes and a depiction of the castle as it appeared in the 16th century. The restoration was made possible by contributions from the Piedmont region, the municipality of Avigliana, and private citizens.

A report from Val di Susa describes an exceptional sighting of three "lamb vultures" by hunters and a wildlife officer. However, the description provided by the witnesses—white collars, bald heads, and meowing sounds—is noted as being more characteristic of griffon vultures, which are still found in the Maritime Alps, rather than lamb vultures, which were thought to be extinct in the region for decades. Despite the potential misidentification, the sighting is considered significant.

Other Content

The issue also includes a photograph of Don Alberto De Agostini, a Salesian missionary, scientist, and explorer who spent nearly fifty years in South America. A caption notes his work in spreading Christian civilization and his discovery of Andean peaks, including one named after him in the Paine group.

Advertisements for MEB's books, including "Nostradamus: Centurie e Presagi" by Renucio Boscolo, and for the magazine "Gli Arcani," which covers parapsychology, spiritism, magic, ufology, and cosmology, are also present.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of the unknown, historical mysteries, and the burgeoning interest in subjects often considered outside mainstream science. The magazine showcases a blend of historical research, particularly concerning ancient civilizations and secret societies like the Templars, with contemporary fascination for the paranormal, ufology, and esoteric practices. The interview with the MEB publisher clearly indicates an editorial stance that embraces these subjects, viewing them as valid areas of inquiry that offer new perspectives and challenge conventional understanding of the universe. The emphasis on "avant-garde research" and "unusual" topics suggests a commitment to presenting cutting-edge or unconventional ideas to its readership, particularly appealing to those interested in expanding their knowledge beyond traditional boundaries.

This issue of the magazine focuses on "Great Piedmontese in Parapsychology," with a prominent feature on Linda Gazzera, a Turin-based medium.

Linda Gazzera: A Medium of Physical Effects

The article details the life and paranormal abilities of Linda Gazzera, who was studied by numerous scientists, including E. Imonda, C. Richet, A. Schrenck-Notzing, and G. De Fontenay. Her phenomena included telekinesis, luminous manifestations, and particularly materializations. Notably, no one ever doubted the genuineness of her phenomena, and she was never accused of fraud.

At the time of her best manifestations in 1908, Gazzera was twenty-two years old, described as normal in stature, very dark-haired, with a gaze that denoted the bewilderment characteristic of easily hypnotized individuals. She easily fell into a hypnotic sleep.

Gazzera had a modest literary culture, loved foreign languages, and wrote novellas published in popular newspapers. Despite an impulsive and unstable character, common in hysterical subjects, she docilely adapted to the rigorous controls to which mediums were subjected before séances.

Her trance state presented unique characteristics. She would fall asleep easily, reaching the deep trance phase necessary for physical phenomena within minutes. She would awaken just as easily with a light breath on her face. During her trances, her behavior varied significantly based on her physical and psychological condition. In her best state, the trance was calm. However, if she had been angered or if an unlikeable person was present, the mediumistic force would manifest with tremendous blows on furniture, and the mediumistic personality would adopt a violent conduct. Tables would break, and on one occasion, a locked wardrobe was forced open, its contents scattered and broken on the floor.

Telekinetic phenomena were sometimes observed just after the lights were turned off, with the medium still awake, suggesting that the trance state was important but not essential for producing physical phenomena.

However, Gazzera's specialty was materialized phantoms. "Materialization is a paraphysical phenomenon of 'teleplasty' with which, during spiritist séances, total or partial phantoms are obtained that have all the appearance of people and living limbs. Materialization derives from ectoplasm." Gazzera's materialized entities behaved intelligently, responding with nods to questions and obeying the desires of those present. Photographs demonstrated that within seconds, a finger, a hand, or a face would emerge from the amorphous mass of ectoplasm.

The principal entity that presided over Gazzera's séances identified itself as Vincenzo, a cavalry officer who had died many years prior. Initially, Vincenzo did not specify dates or places but later provided detailed information about himself.

A second personality present at the séances called herself Carlotta, who was affable and courteous, distinguished by the contact of her hands with long, slender fingers. These entities were the most frequent spirit guides for Gazzera. Numerous other materializations and entities were photographed during her séances.

The major contribution of Gazzera and her primary experimenter, Dr. Enrico Imoda of Turin, lies in the collection of a vast number of photographs over several years of experimental séances, documenting the materialized phenomena. The possibility of fraud is considered absolutely excluded due to the photographic documentation and the scrupulous study of Gazzera.

During séances at the International Metapsychics Institute in Paris, Gazzera materialized a head in front of Richet. Subsequent research revealed the model was a detail from a Rubens painting that Linda had admired at the Louvre. This photograph caused a stir, with critics claiming to have finally discovered fraud. However, the explanation that "thought and will are plasticizing forces, and since ectoplasm seems to spring from thought, it follows that thought manifests itself in the formation of the ectoplasmic image" silenced the critics, turning what was attributed to fraud by ignorant critics into a sensational proof of teleplastic creation.

Regardless of the origin of these phenomena, which remain unsolved after almost a century, the genuineness of these materializations is affirmed. Gazzera's impressive manifestations place her among the most luminous figures in metapsychics and the mother of parapsychology. Like Palladino, D'Esperance, Cook, and Kluski, this Turin medium contributed to the development and diffusion of nascent metapsychics by allowing the study of faculties previously considered unusual in humans. The current status of parapsychology as a science, despite its limitations, owes a particular debt to this medium.

Contemporary Parapsychology and UFO Research

The article notes that great physical-effect mediums like Linda Gazzera, abundant in the last century, are now rare, with fewer than ten considered worthy of study worldwide. One such sensitive currently being studied in the Soviet Union is Nelya Mikhailova.

A recent volume, "Psychic Discoveries Behind the Iron Curtain" by Sheila Ostrander and Lynn Schroeder, profiles Mikhailova. The article quotes passages describing Mikhailova's ability to control psychokinetic energy, moving objects with her will, and even making a nail polish bottle move without touching it. Her husband filmed her extraordinary PK powers.

Writer Vadim Marim recounts an incident where Mikhailova made a piece of bread move and eventually jump into her mouth. A group of scientists, including Dr. Genady Sergeyev, studied Mikhailova. Sergeyev's research suggested that psychokinesis involved the mind acting at a distance, and he hypothesized that an apparatus could detect this PK energy.

Dr. Harold Burr of Yale University established that all living matter is surrounded and controlled by electrodynamic fields, acting as an electronic mold that ensures new tissue assumes the correct form. Dr. Leonard Ravitz discovered that the mind could influence this field around the body. Dr. Sergeyes developed an apparatus to detect biological fields up to three meters from the human body without direct contact.

The book by Ostrander and Schroeder is described as a comprehensive overview of ESP research in communist countries, offering a rare glimpse into psychic research behind the Iron Curtain.

The Birth of Italian Ufology: The Caselle Sighting

The article then shifts focus to the birth of Italian ufology, pinpointing November 30, 1973, as a significant date for Turin. On that day, around 7:00 PM, a "flying disc" was reported visually and by radar over the Caselle airport, prompting a pursuit by a Piper Navajo piloted by Riccardo Marano. The object evaded capture near Voghera but left a significant legacy.

The incident, widely reported in the Italian press, introduced the term "UFO" (Unidentified Flying Object) into common usage. The article notes that the term "flying discs" has largely been replaced by "UFOs" and "ufology," and military authorities are now paying attention to the issue, with some Italian scientific circles willing to address the problem after years of disinterest.

This increased attention is attributed, in part, to the persistent efforts of CLYPEUS, which since the early 1960s has advocated for public awareness of the issue. The formation of the CUN (National Ufological Center) in Turin in 1965, stemming from a CLYPEUS meeting, has helped overcome widespread skepticism.

Ufology books are now appearing more frequently in Italian bookstores, reflecting a shift in the average Italian's attitude. The Caselle incident is credited with significantly contributing to this change by imposing a reality and an appropriate term.

The event on November 30, 1973, involved a luminous object, described as a pulsating and iridescent globe of light, sighted at low altitude. It was observed by airport control tower technicians and pilots of three aircraft: a Piper Navajo, a DC-9 arriving from Paris, and another DC-9 heading to Rome. The object was also detected by radar at Caselle and at the military base in Mortara, Lombardy. Radar operators at Capo Mele and Linate reportedly also saw it.

On radar, the UFO appeared as a "material point" with an intensity comparable to a large airliner. According to the military commander of Caselle, Colonel Rustichelli, the object initially appeared "immobile." Its subsequent movements, tracked both visually and by radar, were described as aerodynamically incredible, involving sudden horizontal and vertical shifts and extremely high speeds, including a vertical climb of 4,800 meters in two seconds at quadrisonic speed.

Piloted by Marano, the Piper Navajo was guided by ground control towards the enigmatic presence. The article describes an "impossible succession of deviations, dives, climbs, vertical 'dances'" as the UFO seemed to play hide-and-seek with the Piper, eventually outmaneuvering it by ascending vertically at a speed exceeding Mach 4.

However, the article notes that this was not a new phenomenon. It recalls a similar incident on October 1, 1948, where U.S. National Guard Lieutenant George F. Gorman pursued a luminous white light traveling at approximately 400 kilometers per hour. The control tower confirmed the presence of the object, observable from the ground. Gorman intercepted the object, which repeatedly evaded his attacks by moving away at the last moment.

The article concludes that the hypothesis of UFOs being secret weapons of a great power is largely defunct. It questions whether these phenomena are unknown natural occurrences or extraterrestrial technological realities, or perhaps artfully disguised manifestations of intelligences from a parallel paraphysical world, as suggested by John Keel in his book "UFO: Operation Trojan Horse."

While absolute certainty remains elusive, the spectacle of November 30, 1973, is credited with giving Italian ufology a new direction.

Groups of Research: Il Labirinto

The "Il Labirinto" study center was founded in Turin on October 13, 1972, to investigate "mysteries of the Universe," with a particular focus on UFOs, Parapsychology, Archaeology, and Esotericism. The center is organized into four sections: UFOLOGY (research and investigations of possible UFO sightings and landings), PARAPSYCHOLOGY (experimentation with sensitives, including telepathy, psychokinesis, clairvoyance, and psychometry, and a group studying Poltergeist phenomena in Piedmont), ARCHEOLOGY (research in Piedmont), and ESOTERICISM AND HISTORICAL RESEARCH (studies on Celts, Etruscans, and Templars).

The article mentions that Bianca Capone, the president, has compiled extensive material for a volume on Templar presence in Italy. The group has held conferences and debates with various speakers, including Gianni V. Settimo, Roberto Pinotti, and Nicola Riccardi. Their activities culminated in the first Regional Congress of Research Groups at "Il Labirinto," which generated significant public and press interest. Periodically, study trips are organized, including visits to Provence for Templar Commande sites, castles in Piedmont to investigate hauntings, and abbeys for historical research.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently promotes research into parapsychology, ufology, and esoteric subjects, providing a platform for researchers, mediums, and enthusiasts. The editorial stance appears to be open-minded and investigative, encouraging the study of unexplained phenomena while maintaining a critical approach, as seen in the discussion of the Caselle UFO sighting and the historical context of mediumship. The publication also serves as a hub for information exchange, listing research groups, bookstores, and relevant publications, fostering a community dedicated to exploring the mysteries of the universe.

This document appears to be a promotional flyer or a section of a magazine from Casa Editrice MEB, focusing on "I BEI LIBRI DI CENT'ANNI FA" (The Beautiful Books of a Hundred Years Ago). It highlights a curated collection of classic novels, alongside an announcement for a new "SAGA" collection of Fantasy and Science Fiction.

Classic Novels Collection: "I Bei Libri di Cent'anni Fa"

The collection, curated by Giovanni Arpino, features significant works from the late 19th century. Three specific titles are showcased:

• "La Bufera" by Edoardo Calandra: Described as a historical novel set in Piedmont between 1797 and 1799. The volume was published in 1898 and is noted as being almost unobtainable now. It includes a preface by Professor Aldo A. Mola. The book has 320 pages and costs 3,000 Lire.
• "Gelia: Il Governo dei Preti" by Giuseppe Garibaldi: This is a historical-political-satirical novel about Papal Rome in 1866. The volume was printed in 1870 and has not been republished since. It features an introduction by Professor Aldo A. Mola. It also has 320 pages and costs 3,000 Lire.
• A popular novel by Victor Hugo: This work centers on the French Revolution and the subsequent repressions in the Vendée region. The Italian translation and preface are by Professor Aldo A. Mola. It is a larger volume of 336 pages and costs 3,000 Lire.

The books in this collection are characterized by their large format, printed on rough, handmade paper. They feature an elegant typographic design with period friezes and illustrations, a "rusticus" cardboard cover, and a 5-color dust jacket on parchment-like paper.

Special Offer

A special offer is presented: the collection can be acquired for 6,000 Lire, or individually at the full price of 3,000 Lire. Interested buyers are instructed to send a postal order or check for 6,000 Lire, or request cash on delivery (with shipping costs borne by the buyer) to Casa Editrice MEB at Corso Dante 73/pi, 10126 Torino.

New "SAGA" Collection: Fantasy and Science Fiction

Page 2 introduces "LA NUOVA COLLANA DI FANTASY E FANTASCIENZA" (The New Collection of Fantasy and Science Fiction) under the "SAGA" imprint. This collection includes:

• "Creature della Luce e delle Tenebre" by Roger Zelazny: Priced at 3,000 Lire.
• "Onnivora" by Piers Anthony: Also priced at 3,000 Lire.
• "Tutti i tempi possibili" by Gordon Eklund: Priced at 3,000 Lire.
• "I Wilk sono tra di noi" by Isidore Haiblum: Priced at 3,000 Lire.

These volumes are described as being bound in imitation linen with a plasticized color dust jacket.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The publication strongly promotes classic literature and genre fiction, emphasizing the quality of the books (paper, typography, illustrations) and offering them at attractive prices, particularly through special offers. The editorial stance appears to be one of making valuable and historically significant literary works accessible to a wider audience, while also catering to contemporary interests in fantasy and science fiction. The focus on "cent'anni fa" suggests an appreciation for enduring literary value and historical context.