Clypeus Piemonte Insolito - 1976 No 44

Magazine Overview

CLYPEUS - Rivista trimestrale diretta da Roberto D'Amico. Issue No. 44, Volume XI, New Series No. 2, dated June 1976. The cover price is 300 Lire. The magazine's title is 'CLYPEUS' with the subtitle 'miti leggende folclore del PIEMONTE INSOLITO' (Myths, legends, folklore of the Unusual Piedmont).

Editorial Stance and Publisher Information

The magazine is published by CLYPEUS and is directed by Roberto D'Amico, with Gianni V. Settimo serving as the responsible director and publisher. The administration and editorial office are located at Casella postale 604, 10100 Torino. The publication is registered with the Tribunal of Torino under No. 1647, dated April 28, 1964, and is distributed via postal subscription under Group IV/70. Advertising is handled by R.P. Via Vico, 9, Torino.

CLYPEUS aims to publish articles on history, geography, art, archaeology, literature, and folklore that promote the knowledge and valorization of the Piedmont region, the Aosta Valley, and Provence (Occitania). Collaboration is open to all scholars and is unpaid. The magazine is copyrighted by CLYPEUS 1976.

Articles with bylines are the sole responsibility of their authors, while unsigned articles are compiled by the editorial staff. The publisher reserves all rights to published material, requiring written consent and attribution for any reproduction. Copyright is protected under the Geneva Convention.

Material submitted for publication, even if not used, is not returned unless prior written agreement states otherwise. The magazine is published for cultural and informational purposes, not for profit, and is sent free of charge to members of the "Gruppo Clypeus". The publisher expresses gratitude to the voluntary contributions of the editorial team.

CLYPEUS welcomes exchanges with similar publications. The magazine is distributed and sold in newsstands in Torino and its surrounding areas, an experiment that may be expanded if successful. The cover price is modest, reflecting the magazine's nature as a publication by friends for friends, without speculative aims.

Contents and Featured Articles

This issue, the second of the new regional series, has received significant positive feedback, with 5000 copies of the previous issue selling out quickly. The magazine aims to be a voice for the people of Piedmont.

Editorial

The editorial expresses gratitude for the success of the previous issue and announces the expansion into newsstands. It highlights the modest cover price, emphasizing the magazine's non-profit nature. The editorial thanks contributors to the "Coppa Maurizio Tamburini" contest and encourages readers to vote for their favorite article to foster a constructive dialogue. A new section, "Spunti di ricerca" (Research Sparks), will be introduced to engage readers in direct research and collaboration. The editorial also mentions an upcoming report on an interview with an author focused on regional history and folklore, part of an ongoing effort to connect with independent Piedmontese researchers and authors.

Table of Contents

The issue features a variety of articles, including:

• EDITORIALE (Editorial)
• FANTASMI DEI CAVALIERI DI MALTA NEL MONFERRATO (Ghosts of the Knights of Malta in Monferrato) by Giovanni Maria Vacca, page 2.
• TORINO CITTÀ TALISMANICA (Torino: Talismanic City) by Violetta Besesti, page 5.
• UN GRANDE PIEMONTESE SCONOSCIUTO: IGNAZIO PORRO (A Great Unknown Piedmontese: Ignazio Porro) by Roberto D'Amico, page 8.
• ALCUNE CONSIDERAZIONI SUL PROBLEMA DEI GUARITORI (Some Considerations on the Problem of Healers) by Emilio Fattori, page 10.
• INTERVISTA AD UN ASTROLOGO IN TORINO (Interview with an Astrologer in Torino) by Monna Gemmatu, page 12.
• UN MONUMENTO DA SALVARE: MESSE NERE AL CASTELLO DELLA ROTTA? (A Monument to Save: Black Masses at Castello della Rotta?) by Gruppo Labirinto, page 14.
• ARTE INSOLITA: LE STELLE NEL CORTILE (Unusual Art: Stars in the Courtyard) by Gian Paolo Racchetta and Bruno Daniela, page 16.
• UNO STUDIOSO DEL FOLCLORE PIEMONTESE: DON ANTONIO VALENTE (A Scholar of Piedmontese Folklore: Don Antonio Valente), page 18.
• POSSIBILITÀ METALLIFERE DEL PIEMONTE (Metalliferous Possibilities of Piedmont) by Teresio Micheletti, page 19.
• UN INSOLITO DOCUMENTO DEL PASSATO: IL FRATE INDEMONIATO (An Unusual Document from the Past: The Possessed Friar) by Dina Rebaudengo, page 22.
• FENOMENI DI INFESTAZIONE E POLTERGEIST (Phenomena of Infestation and Poltergeist) by Claudio Marchiaro, page 25.
• LA GERLA (The Gerla) by Luciana Monticone, page 28.
• GRUPPI DI RICERCA: HORUS (Research Groups: Horus), page 31.
• CHI CERCA TROVA (He Who Seeks Finds), page 32.

Fantasmi dei Cavalieri di Malta nel Monferrato

This article by Giovanni Maria Vacca explores legends of ghosts associated with the Knights of Malta in the Monferrato region. It focuses on the isolated hill of "S. Emiliano," which features an ancient church. While the church's structure suggests a foundation predating the Knights of Malta's significant development in the 12th century, local tradition links it to them. The article posits that the church might have been annexed to a Knights of Malta monastery. It recounts a specific incident at the Cascina di Sant'Emiliano, where old farmers reported seeing ghostly figures in white tunics with rattling chains and heavy swords, seemingly linked to the Knights. The explanation offered is that these were the apparitions of the Knights of Malta, who were once formidable figures in the area. The article also mentions the discovery of numerous human skeletons during consolidation work at the church's apse in 1967, which occurred after a strong thunderstorm and the church bell ringing mournfully. These findings, while medically analyzed as belonging to robust adults from a distant past, did not yield specific clues about their identity or cause of death, thus reinforcing the popular belief in past tragedies, mass executions, or vengeful acts within the former monastery.

Torino Città Talismanica

Violetta Besesti's article delves into the esoteric significance of Torino as a "talismanic city." It suggests that Torino possesses active and invisible talismans that influence its environment and inhabitants. The author posits that the city's energy is subterranean and understood by "Initiates" who are connected to a lineage of knowledge. The article discusses the concept of talismanic cities, which are believed to foster mutual aid, promote just laws, and serve as conduits for tradition to project into the future. It touches upon the ancient Celtic "Via dei Celti" (Way of the Celts) and the role of prophetesses (Druidesses) in Celtic society. The article mentions that Torino has three visible talismans: the Holy Shroud (Sindone), believed to be a burial cloth used by Initiates; a statue at Superga (statue of Gallico); and gold found in the sands of the Orco river. It implies that further excavations in Torino could reveal Druidic Runes, temples of Isis, and other sites dedicated to "Rama" (representing the power of love).

Un Grande Piemontese Sconosciuto: Ignazio Porro

This article by Roberto D'Amico introduces Ignazio Porro (1801-1875), a largely unknown but significant Piedmontese scientist and inventor. Porro, born in Pinerolo, was the son of a captain in the Piedmontese engineers and was destined for a military career. He entered the military college at 13 and became a captain in the engineers by 24. His scientific passion developed alongside his military career, leading him to work on topographical and geodetic projects in Piedmont. He invented the stereogoniometric telescope, the first tacheometer (a device for measuring angles and distances), and theoretical work on tacheometry, as well as the central anallactic telescope and a prismatic telescope (a precursor to modern binoculars). He also invented the "cleps," a measuring machine. Porro's interests were diverse, including the construction of a large astronomical telescope (52 cm diameter), the development of the quadrangular objective and telephoto lens, and theoretical and experimental studies on tunnel boring using compressed air. He also contributed to the installation of the first Furneyron turbine in Italy and designed a complex clock for the bell tower of San Maurizio in Pinerolo. Despite his genius, Porro, like Leonardo da Vinci, was not fully appreciated in his homeland and had to seek support abroad. His attempts to combine theory with practice in Torino led to the founding of a precision mechanical workshop, which he was forced to close due to lack of funds. He later moved to Paris, where he received recognition and support from Napoleon III, founding the "Institut Technomatic" and receiving a gold medal for public works. His work on "La Tacheomètrie" was officially adopted for higher education. After the proclamation of the Kingdom of Italy, he returned to Italy in 1864 and established "La Filotecnica" in Milan, but faced similar economic difficulties and died in 1875, disheartened by his repeated failures.

Other Articles

The issue also includes articles on the problem of healers, an interview with an astrologer in Torino, a plea to save a monument (Castello della Rotta), unusual art, a scholar of Piedmontese folklore (Don Antonio Valente), metalliferous possibilities in Piedmont, an unusual historical document about a possessed friar, phenomena of infestation and poltergeist, and research groups like Horus.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of CLYPEUS revolve around the hidden, unusual, and often esoteric aspects of Piedmont. There is a strong emphasis on local legends, folklore, and historical mysteries, such as the ghosts of the Knights of Malta and the talismanic nature of Torino. The magazine also highlights regional history and notable figures, even those who are lesser-known, like Ignazio Porro. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting and preserving the unique cultural heritage of Piedmont, encouraging reader participation, and fostering a sense of community among those interested in the region's mysteries. The non-profit, collaborative nature of the magazine is consistently reinforced, positioning it as a labor of love for the region's history and folklore.

This issue of L'Astrologo (Volume I, Issue 9, 1977) explores a range of esoteric and historical topics, with a focus on unexplained phenomena, alternative healing, and historical sites. The cover features a portrait of Ignazio Porro, founder of Celerimensura, and a book cover for 'Calligaris: Precursore di una Nuova Era,' highlighting psychic abilities.

Articles and Features

Ignazio Porro: A Piedmontese Scientist

The issue begins by discussing Ignazio Porro, a scientist from Piedmont, founder of Celerimensura. Angelo Salmoiraghi is quoted as saying Porro possessed youthful ardor and organizational skills he previously lacked. The article expresses a hope that Porro will be recognized in Italy as he has been in France and Germany. A quote from Faye highlights Porro's numerous inventions, stating he enriched science with more inventions than would be needed for one person to become famous.

The article notes that the essential elements were drawn from a booklet by Giovanni Visentin, published by Pro Pinerolo for an exhibition commemorating the centenary of Porro's death. The exhibition was supported by the Institute of Geodesy, Topography, and Photogrammetry of the Polytechnic of Milan, which provided instruments designed by Porro, and Filotecnica Salmoiraghi, which handled the assembly.

Considerations on the Problem of Healers

This section features an excerpt from a report by Dr. Emilio Fattori, presented at the VII International Congress of Parapsychologists. Dr. Fattori recounts a case where a surgeon's patient, suffering from persistent pain, experienced relief after the surgeon, accustomed to a dogmatic medical system, placed his hands on her. He questions why doctors are hesitant to explore such methods when conventional treatments fail.

Dr. Fattori shares another case of a 25-year-old woman diagnosed with multiple sclerosis who suffered paralysis in her left leg and arm. After a bio-radiant treatment, which he suspected was more about boosting her morale, she improved. He then used hypnotic suggestion to demonstrate that paralysis could occur due to psychological factors, such as jealousy, rather than solely organic causes. This was a risky but ultimately successful attempt to alleviate her fear of the disease.

He further discusses a case where a woman with eczema, diagnosed as multiple sclerosis, was cured after visiting a healer in Holland. Dr. Fattori questions the nature of such illnesses and suggests that spiritual or psychic medicine might play a role where organic medicine fails. He concludes by advocating for a deeper study of these phenomena.

Interview with an Astrologer in Turin

This section features an interview with Federico Capone, born in 1923, who founded the Centro Italiano di Astrologia (CIDA) in 1970 and served as its president for three years. He is the editor of the quarterly magazine 'Linguaggio Astrale' and has published several books on astrology, including 'Piccolo Manuale di Astrologia' and 'Piccolo trattato di Astrologia.'

Capone discusses his interest in astrology, which began after World War II when he observed the stars in Sardinia. He read 'Il linguaggio degli astri' by A. Del Bello, which became his first text on the subject. He explains that astrology is based on the correlation between humans and the cosmos, interpreted through symbols and astronomical and psychological study. He views horoscopes as guides that help individuals understand themselves better and make informed decisions, rather than dictating destiny.

Capone states that his clientele comes from all social classes and that he offers courses at various levels. He addresses the criticism from 186 American scientists who called astrology 'magical practice devoid of any real justification.' Capone counters by mentioning that many notable figures have been interested in astrology and cites Professor Hans J. Eysenck, who, despite initial skepticism, uses astrology in his psychological studies. Capone argues that it is too easy to attack a discipline without deep knowledge and encourages people to study astrology further.

A Monument to Save: Black Masses at the Castello della Rotta?

This article investigates the dilapidated Castello della Rotta, located near Savona, Italy. The castle, named after a 1639 defeat, is in a state of severe disrepair, with collapsed stairs and ruined frescoes. The article notes the presence of a Maltese cross on a gothic window, suggesting a past connection to the Knights of Malta, Templars, or Gerosolimitani.

Upon entering the castle, the authors describe the remnants of its former grandeur, including a large fireplace, gothic windows, and faded frescoes. However, a disturbing discovery was made in an adjacent room: a large, horned effigy of Satan, along with inscriptions, drawings of the cross of Isis, and symbols of the hanged man. This evidence suggests that the ancient commendam is being used for 'black masses.' In the center of the room, a long table was found with remnants of melted wax, indicating candles were lit, along with a knife and bottles of liquor.

The article questions whether these are mere pranks by young people or deliberate rituals by individuals aware of the castle's history and its potential association with Satanic rites. It notes that the castle is easily accessible, with an open gate and a breach in the wall. The authors appeal for the castle to be declared a national monument, lamenting its neglect by its owner, an farmer who reportedly lacks funds.

They suggest that transforming the castle into a restaurant, similar to other historical buildings in the region, would be a preferable alternative to its complete ruin.

Arte Insolita: Stars in the Courtyard

This piece reflects on the influence of old Piedmontese stories, myths, and superstitions on artistic expression. The authors describe how these elements, rather than conventional landscapes, inspired their depiction of stars in a courtyard. They mention figures like 'ancient supermen' with unknown powers and psychic perceptions (E.S.P.). The article touches upon folklore elements such as water diviners, eerie noises, stray cats, and exorcisms.

It also references the fantastical imagery of Hieronymus Bosch. The authors ponder whether the charm of old taverns influenced these stories and whether fantasy is always irrational. They also mention the presence of 'Setmin' (healers) who distribute herbal remedies and potions, passing down ancient secrets.

The article concludes by describing the atmosphere of anticipation and anxiety during the approach of a summer storm, with distant thunder, barking dogs, and people looking to the sky with a mix of unease and anger over their year's labor.

Visitors from Space

This section features an artwork titled "Visitatori cosmici" by G. Paolo Racchetta (1975). It includes a brief account of a sighting where a large, luminous object descended from the sky, hovering at a distance of about a kilometer, and then moved erratically. The authors admit to having witnessed similar phenomena themselves.

It also references an exhibition in Strasbourg by painter Jean-Francois Deluol, titled "OVNI et Extraterrestres: mythe et réalité," which explored UFO sightings and enigmatic archaeological artifacts. The exhibition was inspired by the ideas of Carl G. Jung, James Mac Donald, and Jacques Vallée. A particular work, "Rencontre sur le plateau du Valensole," is highlighted for its UFO pathos.

A Student of Piedmontese Folklore: Don Antonio Valente

This article introduces Don Antonio Valente, a priest and folklorist from Casalgrasso, who has authored books on Piedmontese history and folklore. His first book, "San Sebastiano Po," details the history, churches, and local life of the town where he served as a pastor. It covers historical events, popular sayings, and local legends, including the "tola d'Civas" and the "Bricco Carlevario" bonfire.

His second book, "...na còsa bischin-a e biscosa...," is a collection of 111 riddles in the Piedmontese dialect, illustrated by children from the local oratory. The author is praised for his dedication to preserving the history and folklore of the region.

The article provides contact information for purchasing Don Valente's books, noting they are not available in bookstores.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of L'Astrologo demonstrates a strong interest in the unexplained, the paranormal, and alternative belief systems. The magazine explores topics such as psychic phenomena, astrology, folklore, and historical mysteries, often questioning the limitations of conventional scientific and medical approaches. There is a clear editorial stance that encourages the exploration and study of these subjects, even when they fall outside mainstream acceptance. The magazine also shows a commitment to preserving regional history and folklore, as exemplified by the feature on Don Antonio Valente. The inclusion of book reviews and advertisements for related literature further reinforces its focus on esoteric and Fortean topics.

This issue of the magazine, identified by the number '19', focuses on the "Metallic Possibilities of Piedmont" (Possibilità metallifere del Piemonte). It presents a detailed exploration of the region's mineral wealth, historical mining practices, and also delves into paranormal phenomena such as hauntings and poltergeists.

Mineral Wealth of Piedmont

The magazine begins by introducing a book by Teresio Micheletti titled "L'IMMENSA MINIERA D'ORO DEI SALASSI," which explores the gold mines of the Salassi. Micheletti, an Inspector General of Mines, has conducted extensive research into Piedmont's mineral resources. The article challenges the common notion that Italy is poor in minerals, citing historical evidence of rich Italian mineral production, including sulfur and mercury. While Piedmont and the Aosta Valley may not have been prominent for lead and zinc, they distinguished themselves in copper mining. Several copper deposits are mentioned, including one in Alagna Valsesia that is still under exploration and is believed to have yielded a significant portion of Italy's copper production in recent years. Other copper mines noted are in Ollomont, Valpelline, Glacier (Massello), Chamdepraz, and Saint Marcel.

Nickel is also discussed, with its presence noted across a wide area from Biellese to the Ossola Valley. The extraction of nickel has had brief periods of activity, with the last significant period during World War I.

Gold mining in Piedmont has a tradition of at least three millennia. Numerous rivers in the region contain gold-bearing sands, and traditional gold panning is still practiced. Historical records from the 19th century indicate that several kilograms of gold were extracted annually from river sands. The article also mentions vein deposits of gold in areas like Valle Anzasca and Pestarena, though some of these mines are now inactive.

Ancient Mining Techniques

The text describes ancient gold mining methods, particularly those used by the Salassi. These involved hydraulic mining, where artificial torrents were used to wash away large amounts of material from moraines to extract gold. The scale and sophistication of these ancient operations are highlighted, with evidence suggesting they were highly advanced for their time.

Paranormal Phenomena: Infestation and Poltergeist

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to paranormal phenomena, specifically 'infestation' and 'poltergeist' activity. Infestation is described as a phenomenon tied to a specific location, characterized by recurring manifestations like apparitions, unexplained noises, and cold spots. Poltergeist activity, on the other hand, is presented as being seemingly linked to a person, often an adolescent, and tends to disappear when the individual is removed from the location.

Several case studies are presented:

• Turin, via Gorizia (1971): A 12-year-old girl, Isa Parodi, was the center of poltergeist activity involving moving chandeliers.
• Massello (1904): A tragic avalanche in the 'Glacier' mine resulted in the deaths of 75 miners.
• Turin (1842-1854): Records show the extraction of gold from rivers.
• Valle del Gran Serin (1557): A legend of a betrayed group of grenadiers and phantom battle sounds.
• Turin, via Sacchi 26 (1945-1953): Episodes of infestation linked to a tragic event during World War II.
• Boccioletto, Novara (1908): Violent stone-throwing phenomena.
• Cuneo, frazione Spinetta (1960): A woman experienced stones falling from the sky.
• Turin, via Bava 6 (1900): Cesare Lombroso investigated a case of poltergeist activity in an inn, involving moving objects and bottles.
• Rigaud (1956): A young boy was the focus of mysterious events.
• Madonna dell'Olmo, Cuneo: A villa with a history of visual and auditory phenomena, including apparitions of figures in habits.

Historical Context and Explanations

The article notes that these phenomena, particularly infestation, are often linked to tragic events. It also touches upon the psychological aspects, suggesting that some phenomena, especially poltergeist activity, might be related to the emotional turmoil of adolescence, serving as an outlet for repressed aggressive instincts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to take a serious and investigative approach to both the geological and the paranormal aspects of Piedmont. It aims to present factual information, historical accounts, and documented cases. The editorial stance seems to be one of exploring the less-understood aspects of the region, from its mineral potential to its unexplained phenomena, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional explanations. The inclusion of specific book recommendations and contact information for experts suggests a desire to engage readers in further research and discussion.

This issue of Clypeus, identified by its page number 32, is a magazine focused on paranormal phenomena, ufology, history, and literature. The cover headline is "Chi cerca trova..." (He who seeks finds...). The magazine is published in Italian and appears to be from the 1970s, with specific dates mentioned in relation to events and publications.

Articles and Content

Anomalous Births and Legends

The issue begins with an account of a two-headed calf born in Sangano on January 21st. The calf, named "Oscar" in a similar case from France in 1950, had two mouths on the same skull and could eat from both, but was unable to stand due to the weight of its head. The article notes that genetic alterations of this type are not uncommon and mentions a similar case in Ceva two years prior. Professor Francesco Cristofori of the Turin veterinary faculty highlights the importance of studying such animals while alive. The text also touches upon a legend about the "Vallone dei Morti" (Valley of the Dead), possibly named after a bloody battle in 1557 between French and Spanish forces.

The "Horus" Research Center

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the "Horus" research center, founded in 1975 but active for seven years prior. Coordinated by Oberto Airaudi, it comprises a dozen groups across Italy. "Horus" organizes weekly conferences on parapsychology and offers courses in subjects like Hypnosis, Radiesthesia, Acupuncture, Astrology, Magic, Radiobiology, and Meditation. It boasts a library of over eight hundred volumes and microfilms. The center has a main office in Turin and a secondary location for experiments. They also publish a "Notiziario" (Newsletter) and conduct research using Kirlian cameras and devices for plant communication.

"Gruppo Clypeus" and its Activities

The magazine also provides a biographical overview of the "Gruppo Clypeus," a Turin-based group of friends interested in myths, legends, folklore, history, archaeology, ethnology, anthropology, esobiology, ufology, and parapsychology. The group holds periodic public conferences in Turin and publishes the quarterly magazine "CLYPEUS." Membership requires a shared interest in these subjects and a yearly contribution of L. 2,500.

Cultural Events and Competitions

Announcements are made for upcoming events, including the "1° Festival della Canzone Piemontese nel Mondo" (1st Festival of Piedmontese Song in the World) to be held in San Pietro Val Lemina from July 5th to 10th. The festival is open to new and traditional songs in dialect, Italian, or foreign languages, with subjects related to Piedmont. Additionally, the "8º Premio Nazionale di Poesia 'LA GERLA D'ORO'" (8th National Poetry Prize 'The Golden Basket') is announced, organized by the "Accademia di Cultura e Arte 'Renato Colombo.'" The submission deadline is August 20, 1976, with the award ceremony on October 17, 1976.

Book Reviews and Advertisements

The issue features advertisements for several books. Three "Teuilleton" books curated by Giovanni Arpino are offered at L. 3,000 each. A special offer is made for a three-volume set of "STORIA MILITARE DEL PIEMONTE" (Military History of Piedmont) by Ferdinando A. Pinelli, originally published in 1854-1855, now available for L. 25,000. The magazine also promotes new releases in fantasy and science fiction from "CASA EDITRICE MEB," including works by Roger Zelazny, Gordon Eklund, Isidore Haiblum, Piers Anthony, and Robert Silverberg. Upcoming publications include "ORN" by Piers Anthony and "LA PIETRA FILOSOFALE" (The Philosopher's Stone) by Colin Wilson, as well as Michael Moorcock's "I.N.R.I."

Other Content

There are also sections for personal ads and requests for specific publications, such as issues of "URANIA" and a volume by Cesare Lombroso. The magazine also includes information on advertising rates.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unusual, the unexplained, and the historical. There is a clear interest in parapsychology, ufology, and folklore, as evidenced by the focus on research groups and anomalous phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry and information sharing, providing a platform for enthusiasts and researchers in these fields. The inclusion of literary reviews and historical content suggests a broad interest in subjects that challenge conventional understanding and explore the fringes of knowledge.