Clypeus Piemonte Insolito - 1976 No 46

Magazine Overview

Title: CLYPEUS - PIEMONTE INSOLITO
Issue: No. 46 (New Series No. 4)
Date: December 1976
Publisher: CLYPEUS
Director: Gianni V. Settimo
Editor-in-Chief: Bianca Ferrari

This issue of the quarterly magazine "CLYPEUS - Piemonte Insolito" (Unusual Piedmont) is dated December 1976. The cover features a striking illustration of a human figure with a target-like symbol, hinting at themes of mystery and the unknown. The magazine's stated aim is to publish articles on history, geography, art, archaeology, literature, and folklore to foster greater knowledge and appreciation of the Piedmont region, the Aosta Valley, and Provence (Occitania). Collaboration is open to all scholars and is gratuitous.

Editorial

The editorial section begins with an apology to readers for recent delays in publication, attributing them to unforeseen typographical issues. The editors express confidence that these problems have been resolved and will not recur. The editorial then highlights the content of this issue, emphasizing an article on "Listorie Langarole" (Langa Stories) as an initiative to preserve the cultural heritage of Piedmont. It also mentions an article by Claudio Marchiaro on mysterious inhabitants of the valleys and the continuation of the "Spunti di ricerca" (Research Sparks) series, which this time focuses on a megalithic structure in the Lanzo Valley, inspired by a reader's suggestion. A new series titled "Tesori del Piemonte" (Treasures of Piedmont) begins, aiming to showcase lesser-known museums and artworks, starting with the museum in Collegno. The editorial also notes recent activities of the "Gruppo Clypeus," including two conferences in Turin and round-table discussions organized in various Piedmontese towns in collaboration with Radio-Alba.

Featured Articles and Content

Cover Illustration: The cover illustration is sourced from Giuseppe Gliessenti's volume "PERCHE' SI VIVE" (Why One Lives).

• Table of Contents:
• EDITORIALE (p. 3)
• BERGOLO: IERI E OGGI by Angela Martella (p. 5)
• UNA PROFEZIA PER IL PIEMONTE: QUATTRO CAVALLI PER LA CARROZZA REALE (p. 7)
• LISTORIE LANGAROLE (p. 10)
• GRUPPI DI RICERCA: PSICHE (p. 13)
• LA GERLA by Luciana Monticone (p. 14)
• PARLIAMO DI UFO by Gianni V. Settimo (p. 17)
• APPUNTI PER UNA STORIA DELLA TRADIZIONE ESOTERICA PIEMONTESE by Pietro Bosio (p. 19)
• IL CROMLECH DI BRENO by Adriano Ceppa (p. 21)
• COLLEGIUM AD QUINTUM by Bianca Ferrari (p. 23)
• I MISTERIOSI ABITANTI DEL PIEMONTE by Claudio Marchiaro (p. 25)
• QUI UFO (p. 30)

Errata Corrige: An apology is issued for the omission of Renucio Boscolo's signature in the previous issue.

Bergolo: Yesterday and Today: This article by Angela Martella explores the history and characteristics of Bergolo, a rural village in the Alta Langa region. It details the village's origins, historical ownership changes, and its transformation from a feudal territory to an autonomous commune. The article highlights Bergolo's picturesque landscape, its traditional stone architecture, and its potential as a tourist destination. It also delves into local folklore, mentioning legends of the "servan" (a mischievous sprite) and "masche" (witches), along with traditional practices for warding them off. The article concludes by inviting readers to rediscover the past in Bergolo's mysterious and unspoiled locations.

A Prophecy for Piedmont: Four Horses for the Royal Carriage: This section presents and interprets a prophecy attributed to a German nun, concerning Vittorio Amedeo II of Savoy. The prophecy foretells his coronation as king of an island (Sicily), followed by the exchange for another island (Sardinia), and the subsequent expansion into Piedmont and then Italy. It describes the reigns of eight kings for the "small royal carriage" (Kingdom of Sardinia and Piedmont) and a further series for the "great royal carriage" (Kingdom of Italy). The prophecy also alludes to a fifth king, associated with a "white cross," whose reign would be brief and potentially end with the triumph of communism. The interpretation links the "small carriage" to the period from 1713 to 1861 (148 years) and the "great carriage" to the period from 1861 to 1946 (85 years, interpreted as the reversed number of years of Vittorio Emanuele II's life). It also touches upon the deaths of Italian kings and a cryptic reference to "HAMisch," possibly relating to the sickle and hammer symbol.

Listorie Langarole: This article, based on research by Professor Donato Bosca, focuses on oral folk traditions from the Langa region. It describes a collection of about a hundred stories categorized by theme, including origins, history, magic, demons, and moral tales. The research aims to verify the presence and vitality of these themes in the contemporary world, particularly among children. The article notes the contribution of photographer Murialdo Bruno and discusses Professor Bosca's academic background in medieval history and social psychology related to Piedmontese folklore.

• UFOs and Esotericism:
• "Parliamo di UFO" (Let's Talk About UFOs) by Gianni V. Settimo (p. 17) suggests a discussion on the topic.
• "Appunti per una Storia della Tradizione Esoterica Piemontese" (Notes for a History of Piedmontese Esoteric Tradition) by Pietro Bosio (p. 19) likely explores esoteric beliefs and practices in the region.
• "Il Cromlech di Breno" (The Cromlech of Breno) by Adriano Ceppa (p. 21) might investigate ancient megalithic structures.
• "Collegium ad Quintum" by Bianca Ferrari (p. 23) could be a piece related to a historical or esoteric group.
• "I Misteriosi Abitanti del Piemonte" (The Mysterious Inhabitants of Piedmont) by Claudio Marchiaro (p. 25) delves into local legends about enigmatic beings.
• "Qui UFO" (UFO Here) (p. 30) is another section dedicated to UFO phenomena.

• Book Reviews/Promotions:
• The magazine promotes "LE NUOVE BIBBIE DELLA PARAPSICOLOGIA D'AVANGUARDIA" (The New Bibles of Avant-Garde Parapsychology), featuring "ESPLORAZIONI PSICHICHE IN USA" by Edgar D. Mitchell and "SCOPERTE PSICHICHE DIETRO LA CORTINA DI FERRO" (Psychic Discoveries Behind the Iron Curtain) by Ostrander and Schroeder. These are offered by Casa Editrice MEB.
• A special offer is made on three books from the "Cent'anni fa" (100 Years Ago) series, curated by Giovanni Arpino, each costing L. 3,000. The offer for all three is L. 6,000.
• "STORIA MILITARE DEL PIEMONTE DALLA PACE DI AQUISGRANA AL 1850" (Military History of Piedmont from the Peace of Aix-la-Chapelle to 1850) by Ferdinando A. Pinelli is advertised. The three-volume set is available for L. 25,000 on special offer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Clypeus are folklore, local history, legends, parapsychology, and prophecy, with a particular focus on the Piedmont region. The magazine appears to have a strong interest in uncovering and preserving the unique cultural heritage and "unusual" aspects of Piedmont. The editorial stance is one of scholarly inquiry and cultural preservation, encouraging reader participation and collaboration. The magazine also engages with contemporary phenomena like UFOs and esoteric traditions, positioning itself as a platform for exploring the less conventional facets of history and culture.

Organizations Mentioned: CLYPEUS, Gruppo Clypeus, Radio-Alba, Casa Editrice MEB, Sargraf, Tribunale di Torino, MEB.

Key Persons Mentioned: Roberto D'Amico, Gianni V. Settimo, Bianca Ferrari, Angela Martella, Luciana Monticone, Franco Ossola, Claudio Marchiaro, Edoardo Russo, Mario A. Cerrato, Violetta Besesti, Raymond W. Drake, Andrea Lavezzolo, Salvatore Turtula, Roberto Pinotti, Enea Foresti, Franco Fossati, Carlo Gervasio, Giuseppe Gliessenti, Vittorio Amedeo II, Cesare Ambesi, Nicola Riccardi.

Locations Mentioned: Piedmont, Valle d'Aosta, Provence (Occitania), Torino, Langa, Cortemilia, Liguria, Asti, Saluzzo, Savoia, Milano, Monesiglio, Bormida di Millesimo, Valle di Lanzo, Collegno, Rivoli, Alba, Bra', Savigliano, Dresda, Bergolo, Breno.

Themes: Folklore, Legends, History, Parapsychology, Prophecy.

Tags: Piemonte, folklore, legends, history, parapsychology, prophecy, Savoia, Bergolo, UFO, monaca di Dresda, Listorie Langarole, traditional culture, esotericism, ufology.

This issue of "La Gerla" magazine, dated July 1977, focuses on local history, folklore, esoteric traditions, and ufology, with a particular emphasis on the Piedmont region of Italy. The cover story, "Appunti per una storia della tradizione esoterica piemontese," by Luciana Monticone, delves into the history of esoteric movements in Piedmont, starting with the establishment of the "Stretta Osservanza" Masonic Order in Turin in 1775.

Folklore and Local Legends

The magazine features several short stories contributed by students, recounting local legends and supernatural encounters. Anna Santoro from Castiglione Tinella shares a tale of a haunted house where nightly dancing and singing occurred, which ceased after the villagers intervened. Bruna Revello, also from Castiglione Tinella, tells of a 'masca' (witch) in her village whose death brought peace and unity. Bruna Ulmert recounts a story about a religious widow who believed she could communicate with her deceased husband's spirit, eventually wishing to join him in the afterlife. Claudio Marasso describes an incident where a woman, transformed into a cat to cast a spell, was burned by a mother defending her child. Margherita Caffa shares a story about a mother with twelve children who discovered their food was being stolen by her, as she could turn invisible using a magic book. Giorgio Alpiste tells of two friends who witnessed people 'hoeing' in a field at night, only to find no one there upon investigation, concluding they were tricked by 'masche'. Patrizia Pio writes about an old woman known as 'Trena' who was unafraid of 'masche' and once mistook a hand grenade for a food box.

Esotericism and Historical Societies

Page 3 introduces the "Psiche" research group, founded in Asti in 1974, dedicated to studying the paranormal, parapsychology, astrology, radioesthesia, and ufology. They are seeking material from other groups in Piedmont. The page also features an advertisement for an herbalist and cosmetic shop, "Dr. Vigna," offering natural remedies.

Page 4 discusses archaeological research in Condove, uncovering remains of the "Chiuse d'Italia" fortifications related to King Carlo Magno and the Lombard king Desiderio. It also mentions the publication "Pinerolo La maschera di ferro e il suo tempo," detailing the life of the enigmatic "Man in the Iron Mask."

Page 5 recounts the legend of Saint Julius and the founding of the church on the island of San Giulio in the 14th century. It also introduces the "Walser" people, a German-speaking ethnic group in the high valleys of Piedmont, and the inauguration of their folk museum in Alagna. The origins of the Walser are described as mysterious, with a dialect dating back to the 1200s, and their emigration patterns are discussed.

Page 6 presents a section titled "collana MONDI SCONOSCIUTI MEB," featuring book reviews. "Calligaris, Precursore di una Nuova Era" by G. Tarozzi and M. P. Fiorentino, discusses the work of Giuseppe Calligaris and extra-sensory perceptions. "I Miei Viaggi Fuori dal Corpo" by Robert A. Monroe details out-of-body experiences. "I Poteri dell'Ipnosi" by Jean Dauven is a comprehensive text on hypnosis. "UFO: Operazione Cavallo di Troia" by John A. Keel offers a theory on UFOs, suggesting they are not extraterrestrial in origin.

Page 7 and 8 focus on the topic of UFOs, specifically addressing the "Condon Report" and the changing scientific attitudes towards the phenomenon. Astrophysicist Peter A. Sturrock is quoted, suggesting that the Condon committee did not thoroughly analyze the cases, leading to potentially flawed conclusions. Sturrock highlights common characteristics of UFO sightings and the puzzling inverse relationship between population density and landing reports. He also notes the discrepancy between visual sightings and radar detection, and the interference of UFOs with electronic equipment.

Page 9 features "Appunti per una storia della tradizione esoterica piemontese," continuing the theme of esoteric history in the region. It also includes a profile of "Madame Mizar," a medium who offers consultations and claims to have honed her psychic abilities in India.

Page 10 reviews "I Rosacroce" by Alberto Cesare Ambesi, a book detailing the history and ideas of the Rosicrucian order. It also reviews "Nostradamus Centurie e Presagi" by Renucio Boscolo, which claims to have found a key to interpreting Nostradamus's prophecies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are local folklore, historical accounts of esoteric and secret societies, and the ongoing debate surrounding UFOs and paranormal phenomena. The magazine appears to present a platform for exploring these subjects, often through personal accounts, historical research, and book reviews. The editorial stance seems to be one of open inquiry into the unexplained and the lesser-known aspects of history and culture, particularly within the Piedmont region.

Title: Spunti di ricerca N. 2:
Issue: N. 2
Date: June 1976 (estimated from context of "Ad Quintum" bulletin date)
Publisher: Clypeus
Country: Italy
Language: Italian
Cover Headline: Il Cromlech di Breno

This issue of 'Spunti di ricerca' delves into various intriguing topics, with a primary focus on the 'Cromlech di Breno', a prehistoric megalithic site.

Il Cromlech di Breno

The lead article, contributed by Adriano Ceppa, introduces the 'Cromlech di Breno', a stone circle located in the Lanzo Valley, near Breno, a fraction of Chialamberto. The site features a large, approximately 3-4 meter high boulder at its center, with three smaller stones facilitating its ascent. The author notes that the stones are deeply planted, suggesting an ancient origin, and that trees growing around the central stone are at least 20 years old. Ceppa posits that while the central boulder likely rolled into place due to its immense weight (several tons), the surrounding stones were arranged by human hands. He draws parallels between this complex and other megalithic sites associated with celestial cults and magic found across prehistoric Europe and Italy. The article invites readers to contribute further research and news on the topic.

Collegium ad Quintum

Another significant article details the history of 'Collegium ad Quintum', a Roman 'mansio' (inn) located five miles from Turin on the ancient Via delle Gallie. Initially a military outpost and hospice for travelers, it evolved into a village as farmers and merchants settled. By the 2nd century AD, a 'collegium' of priests emerged, eventually giving its name to the settlement, which became known as 'Collegium ad Quintum', later evolving into the modern town of Collegno. The article mentions the discovery of archaeological finds, including Roman-era marble fragments, during excavations for a church built on the ruins of the ancient collegium. These artifacts date from the 1st to the 9th century AD.

Folclore e leggende: I misteriosi abitanti del Piemonte

This section explores the folklore and legends of elemental spirits in Piedmont. It begins by referencing the famous Cottingley Fairies photographs and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's endorsement, which sparked widespread interest in the existence of gnomes, sprites, and fairies. The article discusses how these mythical creatures have long fascinated the human mind, appearing in stories across cultures. It then details specific regional beliefs in Piedmont:

• General Beliefs: Elemental spirits are described as beings composed of aerial bodies or subtle vital principles, capable of becoming visible when they condense. In mythology, they are classified as Gnomes (earth), Sylphs (air), Undines (water), and Salamanders (fire), all possessing souls and acting as nature's forces.
• Piedmontese Legends:
• Linchetto, Lauro, Servan: Spirits known for their mischievous pranks.
• Savigliano: 'Servan' or 'Culeis' are said to untangle horse manes.
• Peveragno: A more sinister folklore warns against leaving a newborn's laundry outside, as spirits might attach their might be cast upon it.
• Balme (Valle di Viú): White stones on rooftops are believed to ward off spirits.
• Biella: Legends speak of water deities, sprites, and small orcs. The region is rich in tales of fantastic beings and witches.
• Cambursano: Women sprinkle milk with a drop of water in a cross shape to prevent milk from being bewitched by sprites.
• Torazzo: Small orcs are called 'orchons'.
• Sordevolo: Belief in five specific sprites: 'I Ghignarel' (benevolent), 'I Spitascè' (punishing), 'I Fôlet' (foolish), 'la Muletta', and 'Il Karket' (associated with nightmares, linking to Roman 'Inui').
• Val d'Ossola: The 'Vaina' spirit appears as a crying infant, and the 'Splorcia' spirit torments livestock and causes mischief.
• Ferrera Cenisio (Val di Susa): 'Faie' (wood nymphs) and 'Arfai' (water spirits) are mentioned.
• Valle Valdesi: 'Lu Barbariciu' is a local spirit.
• Val d'Aosta & Valtournanche: Belief in fairies is strong, with tales of them influencing livestock, causing spontaneous bell ringing, and appearing as mysterious figures. They are also said to be powerful enough to deter witches.
• Cogne: 'Manteillos' are spirits responsible for disasters, said to reside on Mont Blanc.
• Valtournanche: Gnomes inhabit hollow trees and can mislead lost travelers.
• Gressoney Saint Jean: A legend tells of a mountain fairy who helped build a bridge in exchange for a young man, but was thwarted by a sign of the cross.
• Verrayes: A beautiful fairy appears after rain, while gnomes and sprites emerge at night.

The article concludes by stating that gnomes, sprites, and fairies still exist, visible to those who can still dream, echoing Conan Doyle's idea that they exist on 'another plane of existence'.

Book Reviews and Advertisements

The issue also features a section titled 'MANUALI DEL MISTERO!' (Manuals of Mystery!), listing and advertising several books on topics such as UFOs, autosuggestion, cartomancy, cabala, zen, astrology, magic, radioesthesia, and chiromancy. Additionally, there are advertisements for books published by SAGA, focusing on Fantasy and Science Fiction, including titles by Roger Zelazny, Piers Anthony, Gordon Eklund, and Isidore Haiblum, as well as Robert Silverberg, Colin Wilson, Michael Moorcock, and Ian Wallace. A small advertisement for 'Libreria Antiquaria' in Turin is also present.

Ufology Supplement: 'Fortiana'

A notice at the end of the magazine announces that starting in January, the ufological section of 'Gruppo Clypeus' will publish a monthly supplement called 'Fortiana'. This supplement will focus on UFOs and unusual case studies, adopting a modern ufological approach that moves beyond the Extra-Terrestrial Hypothesis to explore statistical research, particularly on landing cases. It promises to publish original, unpublished material not found in other Italian UFO magazines.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of mystery, the unexplained, folklore, ancient history, and the paranormal. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging reader participation and research into these subjects, particularly those with a connection to Italian history and culture. The inclusion of a dedicated ufology supplement indicates a strong interest in contemporary paranormal phenomena.

This issue of the "MEB COLLANA MONDI SCONOSCIUTI" series presents two distinct but related themes on its covers, both focusing on predictions and future insights. The first cover, featuring a striking black and white illustration, is dedicated to "GLI ANNI FUTURI SECONDO LE PROFEZIE DI NOSTRADAMUS" (The Future Years According to the Prophecies of Nostradamus), authored by Renucio Boscolo. The second cover, in color, highlights "I MESSAGGI PROFETICI DEL PAPA BUONO" (The Prophetic Messages of the Good Pope), written by Renzo Baschera, which explores the future through the teachings of Pope John XXIII.

Content Overview

The magazine is divided into two main sections, each corresponding to the cover themes.

Gli Anni Futuri Secondo le Profezie di Nostradamus

This section delves into the prophecies of Nostradamus, as interpreted by Renucio Boscolo. The cover art depicts a figure in historical attire, possibly representing Nostradamus or a prophet, alongside a winged lion and a book inscribed with "MINERVA LIBERA ET INVICTA" (Minerva Free and Unconquered), suggesting themes of wisdom, freedom, and victory in the context of future predictions.

I Messaggi Profetici del Papa Buono

Authored by Renzo Baschera, this part of the issue focuses on the prophetic messages derived from Pope John XXIII. It examines how his encyclicals, thoughts, and speeches offer insights into the future. The cover art for this section features a portrait of Pope John XXIII with a backdrop of medieval-style illustrations, possibly depicting historical or biblical scenes that relate to his pronouncements.

Publisher and Pricing

Both publications are part of the "MEB COLLANA MONDI SCONOSCIUTI" series, indicating a focus on mysterious, unknown, or esoteric subjects. The price for this issue is listed as "Lire 3.000" on both covers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are prophecy, the future, and the interpretation of significant figures' pronouncements (Nostradamus and Pope John XXIII) as guides to understanding what lies ahead. The editorial stance appears to be one that explores esoteric and historical sources for insights into future events, appealing to readers interested in divination, spiritual guidance, and historical prophecy.