Clypeus Piemonte Insolito - 1977 No 48

Magazine Overview

This issue of CLYPEUS PIEMONTE INSOLITO, Volume 12, Number 48 (new series number 6), dated June 1977, is dedicated to the myths, legends, and folklore of the Piedmont region of Italy. The magazine is directed by Roberto D'Amico and edited by Gianni V. Settimo. It aims to promote greater knowledge and appreciation of Piedmont, Valle d'Aosta, and Provence (Occitania) through articles on history, geography, art, archaeology, and folklore.

Articles and Features

Uomini con sei dita nella storia dell'umanità: Extraterrestri o Uomini Anormali?

This extensive article, authored by Roberto D'Amico, explores the phenomenon of human figures depicted with six fingers. It references Andrew Tomas's book "Mondi senza fine" which suggests these might be traces of extraterrestrial visitors. The article details rock carvings in Australia (Garnet Glen, Mann Ranges, Eucolo Creek, Pimba) and Peru (Marcahuasi, Cerro Sechin, Nasca desert) that feature hands with six digits. It also highlights a local discovery in Piedmont: four paintings in the ancient church of the fraction Maidalena di Pontechianale, in the Alta Valle Varaita (province of Cuneo), depicting the evangelists Marco, Matteo, Luca, and Giovanni, some of whom have six fingers on their hands or feet. The authors investigate the possible reasons for these anomalies, considering both extraterrestrial origins and genetic factors, such as consanguineous marriages leading to polydactyly, a congenital condition where individuals have more than the usual number of fingers or toes.

The article also touches upon historical references to individuals with six fingers, such as the case of Anna Bolena and a child born in Florence in 1357. It discusses the medical term 'hexadactyly' and suggests that in primitive societies, individuals with such anomalies might have been considered influential figures, like tribal chiefs or shamans. The authors conclude by urging caution against jumping to extraterrestrial conclusions and advocating for a deeper study of human diversity.

La Torre della Paura

Written by Marco Consolati, this article recounts the history and legends surrounding the "Torre della Paura" (Tower of Fear) in Aosta. Originally a Roman bastion, it was modified in the Middle Ages by the noble Frior family. After the extinction of the family line, the tower was abandoned and became the subject of local legends, believed to be a haunt of ghosts. The name "Tour de la Frayeur" (Tower of Fear) emerged from this folklore. In 1660, the tower was acquired by Bonifacio Festaz and later donated to a charity hospice. In 1773, it was used to house a family suffering from leprosy, the last of whom, Pietro Bernardo Guasco, died there in 1803. A bronze plaque was added in 1963 to commemorate this tragic history. The tower is now only accessible from the outside, and local tales persist of spectral inhabitants and sounds.

Other Content

The issue also includes a table of contents listing various articles, such as "Uomini con sei dita nella storia dell'umanità," "La torre della paura," "I simboli esoterici della abbazia di Vezzolano," "Un orologio cosmico nel duomo di Torino?", "Viaggi in astrale?", "Dischi volanti in piazza Carlo Alberto," "La 'Pera Maria' di Gravere," "Le 'coppelle' della rocca di Cavour," "La Gerla," and "Il Piemonte era abitato già oltre seimila anni fa."

There is information about subscribing to the "Gruppo Clypeus," which provides access to "Piemonte Insolito" and "Ufo and Fortean Phenomena." Advertisements for "Libreria Antiquaria G. Berruto," "L'ECO DELLA STAMPA," and the magazine "ROBOT RIVISTA DI FANTASCIENZA" are also present.

Additionally, the magazine promotes its sister publication, "UFO and Fortean Phenomena," which focuses on international ufological topics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the unusual, the unexplained, and the folkloric aspects of the Piedmont region and beyond. It appears to maintain an open-minded yet critical approach, as seen in the discussion of six-fingered anomalies, where the authors question simplistic explanations and encourage thorough investigation. The editorial stance values historical research, local traditions, and the sharing of knowledge among scholars and enthusiasts. The inclusion of "UFO and Fortean Phenomena" indicates a broader interest in unexplained events and anomalies.

This issue of "Tesori del Piemonte" (Treasures of Piedmont) is dedicated to exploring the esoteric and symbolic aspects of various historical and natural sites within the Piedmont region of Italy. The primary focus is on the Abbey of Vezzolano, but the magazine also touches upon other intriguing subjects like astronomical clocks, alleged UFO sightings, astral travel, and local legends.

I Simboli Esoterici della Abbazia di Vezzolano

This extensive article by Bianca Ferrari delves into the Abbey of Vezzolano, a historically significant monument in Piedmont. The abbey is situated at a unique geographical point, described as the intersection of bisectors of an equilateral triangle formed by Chieri, Chivasso, and Montiglio. Despite its artistic value, the abbey is noted as being less known, possibly due to its remote location.

The article discusses the abbey's origins, with oral tradition attributing its founding to Charlemagne, though the earliest documented parts date to the 7th century. The first document mentioning the abbey is from 1095, referring to an investiture by the Lords of Albugnano. The church mentioned in this document was not the current one, which features Gothic cross vaults, a style that emerged later.

The author speculates about the unknown artist responsible for the abbey's construction, suggesting they belonged to guilds that passed down astronomical, astrological, and alchemical knowledge. The abbey is characterized as a transitional piece between Romanesque-Lombard and Gothic styles, with a facade that is possibly unique in the region for its Pisan-Lucca style, featuring three tiers of columns forming blind galleries.

Two peculiar features of the church are highlighted: the floor plan's misalignment with the facade and the absence of the right nave. The text describes a tribune (or ambo) supported by five Gothic arches that divide the central nave. Above this is a two-tiered bas-relief depicting the Coronation of the Virgin and her 35 ancestors.

The article explores the potential symbolism of these elements, linking them to ancient cults and astronomical observations. The Virgin's representation is connected to ancient 'mother goddess' figures like Demeter, Cybele, Tanit, Isis, and Belisama, suggesting a Christianization of pagan traditions influenced by astronomy. The dates of Marian feasts are noted to correspond with the heliacal rising and setting of Spica, the star Alpha of Virgo.

Further symbolic interpretations are offered, such as the twelve apostles potentially representing the twelve zodiac signs and the 35 ancestors symbolizing the decans. The article also points out a curious detail in the central scene of the Virgin's coronation: her scepter is identical to one held by 'Alchemy' in a relief at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. The Virgin is interpreted as the personification of prima materia, the essence of all things, and a black Byzantine-style Virgin is noted on the right side of the apse window, with an angel announcing her maternity on the opposite side.

Another significant symbol discussed is the representation of Samson opening a lion's jaws, which is interpreted astrologically as the Sun's power manifesting in the Leo sign and, in Christian terms, as a symbol of Christ. The builders of ancient churches are described as initiates who encoded symbolic messages in their work.

In conclusion, the article emphasizes that the Vezzolano Abbey, despite its remote location, deserves deeper study for its artistic beauty and hidden symbols.

Un'Orologio Cosmico nel Duomo di Torino?

This section presents a brief inquiry into an ancient sundial on the right facade of the Turin Duomo, which is notable for featuring the 12 zodiac signs. The article frames this as a 'touristic impression' and seeks reader input. It mentions that some friends consulted about astrology see the symbols representing hours, while others suggest it's a 'cosmic clock' indicating solar transitions through zodiac signs or even linked to the Duomo's foundation.

Cronache dell'Insolito

This is an announcement for a TV program called "Cronache dell'Insolito" (Chronicles of the Unusual) broadcast on TeleTorino International every Friday evening. The program covers topics such as books, legends, folklore, and ufology, and is interactive, allowing viewers to participate via phone.

Inchieste: Viaggi in Astrale?

Following a conference by Professor Massimo Inarai on 'out-of-body' or 'astral' travel, the magazine is launching a small investigation among its readers to gather experiences on this topic. Readers who have had such experiences are invited to share them, with the possibility of their data being passed on to the Center for Parapsychological Studies in Bologna.

Torino: Dischi Volanti in Piazza Carlo Alberto

This article reports on a strange phenomenon captured by a photographer from "Stampa Sera" in Piazza Carlo Alberto, Turin. The photographer, Ugo Liprandi, took pictures of two perfectly spherical objects in the sky that were barely visible to the naked eye. The article dismisses explanations like weather balloons (due to altitude and opacity) and globular lightning (due to luminosity and shape), suggesting the objects were at a lower altitude than the clouds.

La "Pera Maria" di Gravere

This section by Franco Negro recounts a local legend from Gravere, in the Susa Valley. The legend tells of a massive stone, the "Pera Maria" (Mary's Stone), that detached from a hill during severe floods centuries ago. It miraculously stopped near the village of Bastia, saving the inhabitants. The stone's formation is attributed to the Madonna's intervention, with a supposed imprint of her hand visible on its base. The article also considers a more scientific explanation, suggesting the stone might be a glacial erratic boulder.

Ipotesi di Interpretazione: Le "Coppelle" della Rocca di Cavour

This article by Franco Zavattaro discusses the "coppelle," primitive rock carvings found on the Rocca di Cavour. These are hemispherical cavities created in the rock, possibly by rotating a harder stone. The article notes that while various interpretations exist (star charts, rainwater collection points, spring maps), it favors a more grounded approach based on observation. The 'coppelle' are described as being located on the north-northwest side of the Rocca at an altitude of 400 meters. The article concludes that these findings, consistent with other discoveries in the Alps, suggest a contemporary uniformity in these expressions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of hidden knowledge, symbolism, and unexplained phenomena within the Piedmont region. The magazine adopts a stance of curiosity and investigation, presenting both historical accounts and more contemporary mysteries such as UFOs and astral travel. There is a clear interest in connecting ancient traditions, religious iconography, and local folklore with astronomical and esoteric interpretations. The editorial approach encourages reader participation in uncovering these mysteries, as seen in the inquiries about astral travel and the Turin Duomo's sundial.

This issue of CLYPEUS, dated May 15, 1977, is a 24-page publication primarily in Italian, focusing on a diverse range of topics including prehistory, folklore, alchemy, and unexplained phenomena. The cover story highlights a significant archaeological discovery in Piedmont, Italy, suggesting the region was inhabited over six thousand years ago.

Prehistoric Discoveries in Piedmont

The main article details the discovery of the 'Boira Fusca' cave in Salto, Valle Orco. This site has yielded artifacts and remains of humans who lived there more than six thousand years ago, pushing back the timeline of human habitation in western Piedmont beyond the Neolithic period. Professor Francesco Fedele, an anthropologist from Turin, led the research, which uncovered fragments of tools, pottery, animal bones (wolf, bear, deer), and evidence of Roman and medieval presence. The discovery is considered of international paleontological and anthropological importance, providing the oldest traces of human settlement in the region.

Folklore and Legends

Several articles delve into local folklore. One piece recounts the legend of San Giacomo, celebrated annually on Monte Bracco. The story tells how San Giacomo saved the local population from a volcanic eruption on the mountain by extinguishing the fire with water from his gourd. Another article discusses the widespread belief in 'wild men' or 'Homo Sylvaticus,' legendary beings associated with dense forests and remote mountainous areas, particularly in the Alps, who are said to possess skills in hunting and cheese-making.

Alchemical Pursuits at Palazzo Madama

A fascinating account details the alchemical experiments conducted in the 17th century by Duchess Maria Cristina of Savoy at Palazzo Madama. With the assistance of a French magician named Craonne, she established a laboratory to pursue the creation of the philosopher's stone and the transmutation of metals into gold. The article touches upon the esoteric nature of the work, the use of a special furnace called an 'athanor,' and the mysterious death of the French magician.

Unexplained Phenomena and Discoveries

The issue also features a report on a peculiar discovery in the Vallata del Tanaro: a fossilized head weighing approximately eight kilograms. This unique object, believed to be millions of years old, is described as having a striking expression and unusual features, possibly due to fossilization processes.

Literary and Publishing News

There are also mentions of literary works and publications. Benito Mazzi's book 'Il piano delle streghe' is advertised for purchase. The magazine also notes that two of his "strange facts" have won literary awards. Furthermore, the upcoming publication of Charles Fort's "The Book of the Damned" is highlighted, described as a catalog of inexplicable phenomena. A new series of esoteric studies, "Pane dai Cherubini," by "Taurinense 1532," is announced, curated by the "Centro Torinese Studi Ermetico-Esoterici."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of CLYPEUS demonstrates a consistent interest in the unexplained, ancient history, and esoteric subjects. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting intriguing discoveries and legends without necessarily offering definitive explanations, encouraging readers to ponder the mysteries of the past and the unusual. The magazine acts as a platform for sharing regional folklore, archaeological findings, and alternative historical and scientific perspectives.

This document appears to be a single page from a magazine, primarily featuring a review of a book titled "Liguria a strisce" and an advertisement for an astrologer. The main content focuses on the book, which is presented as a curated collection of comics related to the Liguria region of Italy.

Review of "Liguria a strisce"

The review, written by Franco Fossati, introduces the book "Liguria a strisce" as a regional anthology of comics. Fossati states that they will not attempt to "smuggle" hypothetical agents between the unusual Piedmont and Ligurian comics, implying that such a connection is improbable. The book is described as "the first of his books" and is a "regional story" of comics. It includes an extensive introduction starting from 1900 and continuing to the present day. The anthology features stories by well-known Ligurian comic artists, including Luciano Bottaro, Antonio Canale, Rino D'Anna, and Enzo Marciante. The book is published by EDIT, contains 200 pages, has a format of 21x29 cm, and costs 7,500 lire. It can be ordered directly from the publisher at Via Magnani 1/25 - 16129 Genova.

The review includes a small comic strip at the top left, attributed to Franco Fossati, with dialogue that appears to be political commentary, mentioning "Lockheed" and the abolition of parliament. This comic strip seems to be an example of the style or theme present in the book being reviewed.

Advertisement for Astrologo Spinardi

Below the book review, there is a prominent advertisement for "Astrologo Spinardi" (Astrologer Spinardi). The advertisement states that Spinardi is available "SOLO PER APPUNTAMENTO" (Only by appointment). His address is V. S. Quintino, 43, Torino, and his telephone number is 516897, with a note to "TELEFONARE (AL MATTINO)" (Call in the morning).

Clypeus Publication Information

On the second page, there is information related to "CLYPEUS", with a postal box address in Torino Centro. This section also contains multilingual phrases indicating a willingness to exchange publications with similar ones in Spanish, French, English, Esperanto, and German. This suggests that Clypeus is a publication that engages in international exchange with other similar magazines or journals.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this page is the promotion and review of regional Italian comics, specifically focusing on Liguria. The inclusion of the comic strip by Fossati suggests an editorial interest in the medium of comics and potentially their social or political commentary. The advertisement for an astrologer and the multilingual exchange offer from Clypeus indicate a broader scope for the publication, possibly encompassing diverse interests or serving as a hub for international connections within specific communities (like comic enthusiasts or those interested in esoteric subjects).

The editorial stance, as inferred from the review, is appreciative of regional artistic contributions and highlights the work of specific Italian comic artists. The mention of political commentary in Fossati's comic suggests an openness to content that engages with current affairs, albeit through a satirical lens.