El Ojo Critico - No 44 - 2005

Magazine Overview

Title: EL OJO CRITICO
Issue: N° 44
Volume: DOSSIER 1
Date: 2005
Publisher: GRUPO FÉNIX
Country: Spain
Language: Spanish

This issue of "EL OJO CRITICO" (The Critical Eye), titled "¿MISTERIOS DEL PASADO? - DOSSIER-", delves into alleged archaeological mysteries, aiming to debunk sensationalist theories and misinterpretations. The editorial board emphasizes the importance of critical self-reflection and honest investigation, even when it challenges popular beliefs.

Autocrítica astroarqueológica (Self-Criticism of Archaeos-astronomy)

The lead article critiques the field of archaeo-astronomy, which often seeks to prove ancient alien contact or lost advanced civilizations. It lists numerous examples cited by proponents, such as Machu Picchu, the Nazca Lines, Ica Stones, Stonehenge, the Antikythera mechanism, Easter Island Moai, the Sphinx, Baghdad batteries, Tikal, the Palenque astronaut, Dendera lamps, Sahara screws, Sakara airplane, and petroglyphs. The article acknowledges that a significant portion of ancient history remains undiscovered, comparing it to assembling a puzzle with only 30% of the pieces. However, it argues that archaeo-astronomers frequently take elements out of their historical and cultural context to fit their theories, leading to absurd conclusions.

The author questions the coherence of theories suggesting extraterrestrial technology polished Moai with lasers, used Baghdad batteries for power, and employed Sahara screws for airplanes. The article suggests that the appeal of archaeo-astronomy lies in its ability to transport readers to exotic and mysterious places from the comfort of their homes. It calls for an honest self-critique of biases within the field.

This dossier is dedicated to "mysteries" of the past that, in the opinion of the editors, are not mysteries at all. The publication aims to respectfully offer reasonable alternatives to these supposed enigmas and present research pointing to fraud and deception by some proponents of these theories.

Despite the skepticism, the article concludes that the study of our remote past is a fascinating activity that can teach us much about civilization and ourselves, regardless of whether extraterrestrials visited Earth.

La "humanidad gliptolítica" es un gigantesco fraude (The "Glyptolithic Humanity" is a Gigantic Fraud)

This section focuses on the Ica stones, declaring them a fraud after a nearly four-year investigation. It labels the myth of the "glyptolithic humanity" as potentially the greatest archaeological hoax of all time. The "chubby, big-headed men" supposedly flying on reptiles are attributed to the imagination of Dr. Cabrera and the skill of local artisans. The estimated 50,000 carved stones circulating globally are said to be modern, easily crafted, and bearing marks of modern tools.

The phenomenon of the Ica stones gained prominence in the mid-seventies, with claims that they held the legacy of an extinct civilization. Dr. Javier Cabrera Darquea became the primary collector and defender of these "gliptoliths." The article details how Cabrera allegedly provided drawings to local peasants, including Basilio Uchuya, who later admitted to creating the stones. Although Uchuya later recanted, claiming coercion, he continues to sell the stones, now admitting they are his own fabrications to support his family.

Irma Gutierrez de Aparcana, another artisan who worked for Cabrera, corroborated Uchuya's account, stating that Cabrera initially gave her drawings but later stopped commissioning her. She revealed that certain stones were easier to carve because they were made of softer material.

The investigation uncovered that the stones were not inherently ancient but that softer stones were available. Irma demonstrated how easily she could carve a small dinosaur onto a stone using a simple saw, disproving Cabrera's claim that genuine gliptoliths were hard and unbreakable.

Further analysis by José Antonio Lamich revealed traces of sandpaper on one stone, indicating modern manufacturing. Another example, a "flying saucer" stone, showed red pencil marks from Basilio, confirming the use of modern drawing tools. The article highlights that artisans like Basilio used colored pencils, which were more visible than red ones.

The investigation also examined the inspiration behind the carvings. A "fisherman" stone in Joaquín Mititieri's collection, depicting a human holding fish in nets, was found to be a direct copy of a design on a Nazca ceramic from the Ica Regional Museum. Similarly, a "flying saucer" design was a plagiarism of Nazca ceramics featuring birds and felines. A 1975 calendar depicting Mochica mythological figures was also found to be the source for some of Cabrera's "crab-men" stones, with the addition of modern "knee pads" not present in older examples.

Even supposedly "secret" pieces in Cabrera's museum, like a "glyptolithic Christ" with hands nailed in the center of the palm (contrary to historical crucifixion methods) and a "Last Supper" identical to Leonardo da Vinci's painting, were revealed to be copies made by Basilio.

While acknowledging that a few genuinely ancient stones might exist, possibly unearthed by archaeologists like Alejandro Pezzia and Santiago Agurto and associated with pre-Hispanic tombs (but lacking dinosaurs or "glyptolithic men"), the article concludes that the vast majority are fake. The article mentions that two geologists from the University of Tucumán (Argentina) analyzed a stone and concluded it was engraved with modern instruments.

Vicente Paris, the author of this section, won an award for his demystifying research on the Ica stones, demonstrating honesty by prioritizing findings over personal beliefs, even as a proponent of extraterrestrial hypotheses in other cases.

PETROGLIFOS: LA ESCRITURA EN LA PIEDRA (Petroglyphs: The Writing on Stone)

This article discusses petroglyphs, ancient rock carvings found worldwide, and the mystery surrounding their origins, purpose, and meaning. Researchers have noted striking similarities in petroglyphs across geographically distant regions like the Canary Islands, Ireland, North Africa, Canada, Galicia, Crete, Scandinavia, and South America. Two main hypotheses have been proposed:

1. A Single Source of Inspiration: This suggests a common origin, such as Atlantis, for all petroglyphs. However, this is academically unacceptable.
2. Cultural Contacts: This proposes that ancient civilizations had contact, leading to shared archaeological legacies like identical petroglyphs. This is also deemed historically improbable, given the accepted timeline of global interactions (e.g., the Americas' contact with Europe in 1492).

The article highlights the disconcerting coincidences in anthropomorphic figures found in petroglyphs, such as identical figures discovered in Cundinamarca (Colombia) and Oia (Galicia), Spain. It also mentions other common motifs like animals, serpents, weapons, game boards, and especially circles, spirals, and labyrinths.

Pedro Marfany suggested that circular hollows (cazoletas) and spirals might represent heliolatric solar cults, with the central hollow used for oil or fat as a fuel for torches or lamps.

A New Hypothesis: Shamanism

A new, scientifically admissible hypothesis, though originating from the study of witchcraft, has emerged. Prestigious authors like Reichel Dolmatoff, Pablo Novoa Alvarez, and Fernando Javier Costas Goberna support this theory. It posits that the similarities in petroglyphs worldwide could be due to shamanic practices.

Based on the simplicity of the designs, archaeologists suggest that spiral, geometric, and zig-zag patterns might be related to phosphenes – fleeting perceptions of spots or stars during hallucinatory states. Experiments with shamans from different Amazonian tribes have shown recurring geometric images in individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, explaining why isolated groups might engrave similar symbols, whether through drug-induced states (like Tukanos) or fasting (Guarekena).

Therefore, the article concludes that altered states of consciousness, intentionally induced by shamans across cultures (Russian, Mayan, Guanche, Canadian, Celtic), could be the origin of these enigmatic, globally consistent petroglyph designs. The mystery of petroglyphs, in this case, is illuminated by the study of shamanism, where academic knowledge could not provide a solution.

La superposición de un cartucho de Ramses II crea un efecto óptico (The Superposition of a Ramses II Cartouche Creates an Optical Effect)

This article by Georgios Diaz debunks claims that ancient Egyptian temples contain depictions of modern technology like submarines, airplanes, and helicopters. The author recounts his experience in 1995 visiting the temples of Dendera and Abydos in Egypt. He was shown controversial representations that German writers Peter Krasa and Reinhard Habeck had reported in 1992 as supposed "modern war artifacts."

Upon seeing the images, the author was initially struck by how they appeared to depict a "helicopter," a "war tank," and an "airplane" or "submarine." However, he emphasizes that a scientist should never rely solely on initial visual impressions. Upon returning to Spain and analyzing the images in detail, he discovered that these supposed artifacts were merely the result of an optical illusion caused by the superposition of hieroglyphic texts from Ramses II over texts from his father, Seti I.

The article explains that the "anachronistic" effect is due to the way Ramses II, known for usurping his predecessors' monuments to ensure his name was prominent, had his inscriptions placed over those of Seti I. The original text, reconstructed as MAK IEPET - WAFU JASUT ("Protector of the Temple (Abydos?) and Oppressor of the Nine Nations"), was superimposed with Ramses II's text, DER PESEDYET PEDYUT ("Oppressor of the Nine Arcs" or "Nations of the World").

Specifically:

• The "war tank" is explained as a phonetic hieroglyph for "oppressor" (der) superimposed over a hieroglyph resembling a "chisel" or "carpenter's brush" (mâk).
• The "airplane" is the result of the hieroglyph for "mouth" (r) from the word "oppressor" (der) superimposed over hieroglyphs representing an outstretched arm and a vessel (mâk).
• The "helicopter" is attributed to the superposition of the hieroglyph for "bow" (Pedyet) over hieroglyphs representing an arm with a staff, a head, and a "chick" (w), forming the word wafu, meaning "to subjugate" or "dominate."

The author notes that Ramses II's practice of usurping monuments was common, as cited by Egyptologist Sir Wallis Bugde. However, Diaz suggests that in this specific case, it might have been a "syncretization" to represent a close bond with his father, as the superposition sometimes appears as if Seti I was placed over Ramses II. Regardless of intent, the superposition of texts is evident.

Therefore, the "anachronistic phenomenon" at the temple of Abydos is not a prophecy of the future or evidence of alien contact but a simple and avoidable error of interpretation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "EL OJO CRITICO" consistently promotes a skeptical and critical approach to sensationalist claims in archaeology and history. The magazine actively seeks to debunk popular myths and hoaxes, such as the Ica stones and misinterpretations of Egyptian hieroglyphs, by presenting evidence-based research and logical explanations. It champions critical thinking, honest self-analysis of biases, and the importance of rigorous investigation over speculative theories. The editorial stance is one of rational inquiry, encouraging readers to question extraordinary claims and to rely on verifiable facts rather than unsubstantiated hypotheses, even when those hypotheses are popular or intriguing.

This issue of the magazine delves into the enigmatic Baalbek terrace in Lebanon, exploring the mystery surrounding its construction and the colossal stone blocks that form its foundation. The cover headline, 'Baalbeck, la terraza de los dioses' (Baalbek, the terrace of the gods), immediately sets the tone for an investigation into ancient mysteries.

The Baalbek Enigma

The article begins by describing the Baalbek terrace, located north of Damascus, as a platform built with enormous stone slabs, some measuring 20 meters in length and weighing nearly 2,000 tons. It highlights that archaeology has yet to offer a convincing explanation for its construction or its builders. The famous terrace in the Beqa'a Valley, Lebanon, is presented as a key piece of evidence for proponents of the 'Ancient Astronauts' hypothesis, suggesting that interstellar visitors may have visited Earth in the distant past, leaving behind myths and inexplicable structures.

The text details the sheer scale of the Baalbek terrace, noting that it is a platform with foundations made of the largest known carved stones. The 'Trilithon,' a prominent feature, consists of three colossal blocks, each approximately 20 meters long, 4 meters high, and 3 meters wide, with an estimated weight between one and two thousand tons. These blocks, made of red granite, were quarried over a kilometer away. The article emphasizes that no current mechanism or modern technology is capable of moving such massive stones and placing them precisely. It also mentions an even larger block left in the quarry, known as 'Hajar el Gouble' or the 'Stone of the South.'

The 'official science' is described as remaining silent on these matters. The article references Louis Felicien de Saulcy, who visited Baalbek in 1851 and concluded that the terrace's base was the remains of a pre-Roman temple, as detailed in his 1864 book, 'Voyage autour de la Mer Morte.'

The Extraterrestrial Hypothesis

The hypothesis of an extraterrestrial origin for the Baalbek terrace was first proposed by Belarusian physicist Matest M. Agrest in 1959. Agrest is credited as the first scientist to suggest that Earth was visited by extraterrestrial intelligences in prehistoric times, as detailed in his 1961 article 'Astronauts of Antiquity.' Agrest placed significant importance on the biblical story of Enoch and the Nephilim mentioned in Genesis. He also proposed that tectites were evidence of these extraterrestrial visits and that the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah was a nuclear explosion. For Agrest, the Great Terrace was an ancient landing strip. The article notes that Agrest's primary source for his Baalbek theory appears to have been an unspecified book published in Paris in 1898.

Agrest's hypothesis, and the broader 'ancient astronauts' theory, gained traction, with authors like Erich von Daeniken and Zacharia Sitchin following a similar line of thought. Charles Berlitz, in his book 'The Bermuda Triangle,' also mentions the massive foundation stones of the Temple of Jupiter at Baalbek, Syria, noting they predated the temple and one weighed 2,000 tons, despite a geographical error placing Baalbek in Syria rather than Lebanon.

The article outlines two basic assumptions of the 'ancient astronauts' theory regarding Baalbek: that the platform was built in the very distant past, long before the temples that crown it, and that the weight of the blocks exceeds the technological capacity of humans at that time, and even today.

Examining the Evidence

The article then questions these assumptions, suggesting that the key to the mystery lies in 'curious omissions' outside of the legend. It states that the Baalbek terrace is located in the east of Lebanon, in the Beqa'a Valley, between the Litani and Asi rivers, at the crossroads of ancient trade routes. It was a significant administrative and economic center and was connected by rail to Beirut, Damascus, and Aleppo.

The origins of Baalbek are obscure, with various speculative attempts to identify it with biblical locations like Baal Gad or Biqueat-Aven. Velikovsky suggested it was Dan. It's been hypothesized that it was originally a Phoenician city dedicated to the Babylonian god Baal-Hadad, later assimilated by the Greeks to Helios, hence Heliopolis. However, there is no archaeological evidence for an early Phoenician settlement, suggesting it was either of minor importance or non-existent. The name 'Baalbek' is not ancient; it likely derived from 'Bal Bekaa,' meaning 'valley of Bekaa,' and was used until the 19th century.

Baalbek fell under Greek control after Alexander's conquests in 332 BC, then to the Ptolemies of Egypt, and later to the Seleucids before becoming a Roman colony under Augustus. It gained importance during the Antonine period (2nd century AD). The city was conquered by the Arabs in 637 AD and suffered various sacks and a devastating earthquake in 1759. After World War I, French authorities included it in their mandate for Lebanon. European interest in Baalbek's ruins dates back to the 16th century, but systematic excavations by German expeditions occurred between 1898 and 1905.

The article refutes the idea that the Roman ruins are insignificant compared to the platform, stating that the Baalbek acropolis is the best-preserved example of Roman architecture, with the Temple of Jupiter being the largest known. It describes the Temple of Jupiter as a monumental Corinthian building and mentions the well-preserved Temple of Bacchus and the circular Temple of Venus.

'Inexplicable?'

The German expedition of 1904-1905, led by Theodor Wiegand, is presented as a significant investigation predating the 'ancient astronauts' hypothesis. The expedition's findings, published between 1921 and 1925, revealed that the seemingly solid terrace is constructed of megalithic blocks only on its external walls. Internally, beneath the forum, a labyrinth of chambers filled with compacted rubble and Roman-style honeycomb brickwork was found, all resting on solid bedrock.

The article addresses the weight of the Trilithon blocks, challenging the exaggerated figures of 2,000 tons often cited by proponents of the 'ancient astronauts' theory. Through calculations based on granite density and block dimensions, the author estimates the weight of the largest Trilithon block to be around 784 tons, well below 800 tons and far from 2,000 tons. Even more moderate estimates place the weight at around 600 tons.

The 'Stone of the South,' weighing over 1,000 tons, is also discussed. It is noted that this block never left the quarry, thus its transport is not a mystery. The author speculates that Roman engineers might have made a calculation error or modified the project, making its transport impossible.

Further clarifications are provided: the quarry is located 10-15 meters *above* the construction site, not downhill. The distance to the platform is about 600 meters, extending to 1,100 meters due to a trench. The article questions whether Roman engineers had the technical capacity to move such heavy blocks, even over short distances.

Roman Engineering Capabilities

The article asserts that Roman engineers were adept at moving large stone blocks, even in more challenging conditions than those at Baalbek. It cites the transport of Egyptian obelisks to Rome, some of which were over 30 meters tall and weighed significantly. The transport of the Teodosio obelisk to Constantinople is detailed, involving 12 capstans, each operated by 24 men, and a slow but methodical process. The author suggests that Roman engineers likely used sophisticated techniques, including cranes powered by water wheels and capstans, to move massive stones.

Conclusion

The article concludes that the construction of Baalbek was a remarkable human achievement, not the product of extraterrestrial intervention. While Baalbek may not have the fame of the Great Pyramid, it remains a significant site for speculation about ancient visitors. The author suggests that its 'mystery' should not have arisen, as evidence pointing to human construction was available even before 1905.

The Mystery of the Easter Island Moai

The issue also features an article titled '¿Resuelto el misterio de los Mbai? Los constructores de la Isla de Pascua' (The Mystery of the Mbai Solved? The Builders of Easter Island). This section discusses the enigmatic moai statues of Easter Island and presents the work of archaeologist Jo Anne Van Tilburg, who developed a method for transporting the moai using simple tools like logs, ropes, and human power. The article details the island's geography, its volcanic origins, and its history, including the arrival of the first Polynesian settlers.

It touches upon the legends of the island's origin, the discovery by Captain Jacob Roggenveen in 1722, and the coexistence of two distinct ethnic groups. The moai statues, described as colossal volcanic stone figures resembling human heads and torsos, average 10 tons in weight. The article questions the feasibility of human power alone to create and place these statues, given the island's limited resources.

Several theories regarding the moai are presented, including those by Thor Heyerdahl, who proposed that native islanders used rudimentary tools to shape the stones, and William Mulloy, who suggested a method involving giant logs and ropes. The theory of Pavel Pavel, based on native legends of the moai 'walking,' is also discussed, as is Charles Love's hypothesis involving ropes and a platform for moving the statues.

Erich von Däniken's 'cosmovision' is mentioned, where he suggests that extraterrestrials supplied the ancient Rapa Nui people with advanced tools, which were later lost, leading to the primitive methods used to complete the statues. Van Tilburg dismisses Von Däniken's theory as purely hypothetical due to a lack of evidence.

Other Mysteries

The magazine also briefly touches upon other mysteries, including the 'flor de loto convertida en cabeza alienígena' (lotus flower turned into an alien head) in the tomb of Ptah-Hotep, questioning the interpretation of ancient imagery as evidence of extraterrestrial visitation. It also mentions the enigmatic stone moles of Marcahuasi, Peru, and the unexplained abandonment of the city of Ponape.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout the issue is the exploration of ancient mysteries and the debate between conventional archaeological explanations and more speculative theories, particularly the 'ancient astronauts' hypothesis. The magazine presents various viewpoints, from scientific analysis to popular theories, often contrasting them and questioning the evidence. The editorial stance appears to favor rational, evidence-based explanations, while acknowledging the enduring fascination with the unexplained aspects of ancient civilizations. The article on Baalbek, in particular, concludes by emphasizing the human ingenuity behind its construction, challenging the notion of extraterrestrial involvement.

This issue of Diez Minutos, dated January 31, 1989, features a cover story titled "The Lies of Spanish Astroarchaeologists," highlighting skepticism towards sensationalized archaeological claims. The magazine delves into several intriguing topics, including the potential location of Atlantis, the mystery of the Baghdad Battery, and the advanced technology of the Antikythera Mechanism.

Atlantis off the Coast of Cádiz?

The article "¿Esta la Atlántida en la costa de Cádiz?" reports on a team of scientists from the University of Wuppertal who believe the mythical city of Atlantis may be submerged off the coast of Cádiz, Spain. Satellite photographs of the Hinojos marsh reveal structures, including rectangular buildings and concentric rings, that match descriptions by the Greek philosopher Plato. Rainer Kuehne, a member of the research team, suggests that Plato's reference to an 'island' could actually be a coastal section that was submerged between 800 and 500 BC. The rectangular structures are theorized to be ruins of temples dedicated to Poseidon. While the observed structures are slightly larger than Plato's description, scientists offer two explanations: either Plato underestimated the size, or the ancient Greek unit of measurement was approximately 20% larger than previously thought. The theory that Atlantis is located in Spain is not new, with specialist Werner Wickboldt previously identifying similar structures.

The Baghdad Battery: Electric or Not?

The article "¿Baterías eléctricas o cocteleras? Las pilas de Bagdad" investigates the artifact known as the Baghdad Battery. Discovered in 1936 during excavations in Iraq, the terracotta jar contains a copper cylinder and an iron rod, sealed with asphalt. Archaeologist Wilhelm König identified it in 1939 as a probable electric battery, suggesting that multiple such devices could have been used for electroplating local jewelry. However, the article raises doubts about this hypothesis. Willard Gray, an electronics engineer, successfully generated 1.5 volts by filling a replica with copper sulfate, but the lack of any electrolyte residue in the original artifact and the absence of connecting wires cast suspicion. The author, Luis Ruiz Noguez, argues that while the object can generate a voltage due to the presence of two different metals and a potential electrolyte, its practical use as a battery is unlikely. He points out that electroplating requires significant current intensity, not just voltage, and that the Baghdad Battery's configuration would likely produce low current. Noguez also suggests an alternative, albeit less likely, use as a "cocktail shaker" given its shape and the possibility of adding liquids.

The Antikythera Mechanism: A Technological Marvel

The article "¿Sofisticado mecanismo técnico en Grecia? El Mecanismo de Antikitera" explores the remarkable Antikythera Mechanism, discovered in 1900 off the coast of the Greek island of Antikythera. This complex device, dating back to the 1st century BC, is described as the most sophisticated technological artifact of antiquity. Initially thought to be an astrolabe, its intricate gears and inscriptions led scientists, notably Derek de Solla Price, to believe it was an astronomical computer. Price's research, particularly his 1974 publication "Gears from the Greeks," proposed that the mechanism used a differential gear, a technology not thought to exist until the 19th century. The mechanism is believed to have tracked celestial movements, including the Sun, Moon, and possibly planets, with remarkable accuracy, reflecting a sophisticated understanding of astronomy and mechanics among the ancient Greeks. The article discusses various theories about its purpose, from an educational tool to a sophisticated toy, and highlights the enigma of how such advanced technology was developed and subsequently lost.

Archaeology Without Traps

This section provides advice on how to critically evaluate archaeological news. The author urges readers to be wary of "grand discoveries" and sensational claims, emphasizing that genuine archaeological work is slow and meticulous. Key points include:

1. Distrust "Grand Discoveries": Be skeptical of claims about lost cities, hidden treasures, or discoveries that promise to rewrite history. Seemingly humble artifacts can hold significant historical clues.
2. Observe Who is Behind the Discovery: Be cautious of individuals or organizations with a history of sensationalism, treasure hunting, or questionable methods. Accredited professionals affiliated with recognized institutions are generally more reliable.
3. Know What You're Looking For: The purpose of an expedition can reveal a lot about its motivations and potential biases. Be particularly wary of claims related to legendary or sacred sites, such as those mentioned in the Bible.
4. Be Wary of Esoteric or Mysterious Claims: Avoid information that alludes to supernatural or unexplained phenomena. Sensational claims about secret chambers, ancient artifacts, or mythical figures like King Arthur should be approached with extreme caution.
5. Don't Believe in "Fortuitous Discoveries": Significant archaeological finds are typically the result of years of careful research and excavation, not accidental stumbling upon.
6. Consider the Location of the Find: Be aware that certain regions, like Egypt, are prone to exaggerated or misinterpreted news due to popular interest. Discoveries in less-known areas may be more reliable.
7. Follow the Story: Be aware that initial reports about a discovery can evolve. For example, the interpretation of the Ötzi Iceman's death has changed over time.

The section concludes by encouraging a healthy skepticism but also a continued sense of wonder and curiosity about the past.

The Lies of Spanish Astroarchaeologists

This section critiques the work of Spanish astroarchaeologists, specifically mentioning Antonio José Alés, a radio host known for his paranormal programs. The article points out inconsistencies in Alés's claims, such as presenting a fossilized worm as "mechanical parts from spaceships" in different articles. It also debunks the theory that the Serapeum in Egypt, with its sealed sarcophagi, demonstrates alien intervention. The author explains that the "vacuum-sealed" effect can be achieved simply by burning oxygen within a sealed container, a technique that does not require advanced technology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards sensationalized claims in archaeology and ufology. It encourages readers to apply critical thinking, question extraordinary assertions, and rely on scientific evidence and rigorous research. The underlying message is that while the past holds many mysteries, many extraordinary claims are either misinterpretations, fabrications, or the result of sensationalism driven by financial or reputational interests. The articles promote a balanced approach, acknowledging the possibility of advanced ancient technologies and unexplained phenomena while firmly grounding discussions in verifiable facts and logical reasoning.

This issue of Mundo Desconocido, number 10, published in March 1977, features a striking cover photograph of a human skull with a hole in its forehead, posing the provocative question: 'Who was shooting bullets in prehistory?' The magazine delves into various topics related to mysteries, ufology, and ancient history, including critical analyses of popular theories and reviews of relevant books.

The 'Bullet Hole' Controversy: Moya Skull

The central article addresses the claim made by veteran ufologist Antonio Ribera, who reportedly discovered a prehistoric human skull in the Moya museum (Catalonia, Spain) with a bullet hole. Ribera compared this finding to similar 'bullet holes' found in other prehistoric remains, such as the skull of the Rhodesian man from Broken Hill. He even theorized, based on an extraterrestrial hypothesis, that aliens might have landed in Catalonia thousands of years ago and, armed with hunting rifles, fired upon primitive hominids. Ribera explained the absence of an exit hole by suggesting the hominid survived with the projectile lodged in its skull, or that extraterrestrials performed surgery to remove it, thus leaving no evidence of their crime.

However, the article critically examines Ribera's claims. It points out that identical bone perforations can be found in medical cases due to conditions like acute sinusitis, which would explain the lack of an exit hole or projectile. The author questions the conscious deception by intelligent individuals like Ribera, Antonio José Ales, and Manuel Delgado, suggesting that economic motives might lead to such absurd claims, including 'extraterrestrial screws' and 'bullet holes.' The article argues that it is illogical to assume that advanced alien civilizations capable of interstellar travel would use primitive weapons like rifles.

The Influence of Science Fiction on Astroarchaeology

Another significant piece explores the origins of the 'ancient astronaut' theory, often associated with authors like Robert Charroux, Peter Kolosimo, and especially Erich von Däniken. The article highlights how these authors, many of whom were avid science fiction readers in their youth, drew heavily from existing science fiction narratives. Ethnologist Wiktor Stoczkowski is cited for his work demonstrating that science fiction was the first to propose the idea of extraterrestrial visits to Earth in prehistoric times, with stories featuring Martian explorers landing in the Mesozoic era or aliens influencing human evolution. The article suggests that astroarchaeology, or 'paleoastronomy,' blends elements of archaeology, science fiction, theology, and Gnosticism, with influences from Theosophy, Teilhard de Chardin, and Hindu cosmogony. It also notes the contributions of George Hunt Williamson and George Adamsky, who promoted the idea that modern aliens are the angels of antiquity.

The author expresses skepticism towards the idea that ancient human cultures lacked the intelligence to create advanced monuments and knowledge, arguing against the need for extraterrestrial intervention. Citing Carl Sagan, the article posits that historical humans were as intelligent as modern humans and capable of achieving impressive results through dedication and hard work. While acknowledging ancient chronicles of strange 'signs in the heavens,' the author maintains a significant gap between these accounts and the theory of 'god-astronauts' imparting knowledge and assisting in construction.

Bertrand Méheust and the Psycho-Social Hypothesis

A detailed analysis is dedicated to the work of Bertrand Méheust, a French professor of philosophy and sociology, who is presented as a key figure in contemporary ufology. Méheust's books, such as 'Science-fiction et soucoupes volantes' (1978) and 'Soucoupes volantes et folklore' (1985), are highlighted for their rigorous examination of abduction accounts. Méheust argues that abduction narratives are not literal accounts of alien encounters but rather a form of 'empirical material' and a 'tecno-psycho-drama' that expresses the recesses of human imagination and serves as a modern folklore or mythology.

He proposes that abduction stories are 'archaic mythologizations' of human experiences, a 'psycho-social hypothesis' that views these narratives as expressions of the collective unconscious. Méheust's work is praised for its academic depth and its ability to bridge the gap between believers and skeptics. The article discusses Méheust's categorization of abduction accounts into four stages: incubation (1947-1966), marginal existence (1966-1973), consolidation (1973-1981), and invasion (1987-present), marked by Whitley Strieber's 'Communion.'

Méheust's concept of the 'stateless trance' is explored, describing the abductee's experience of returning from a profound journey but finding themselves alienated from both the mundane world and the dream world, unable to fully belong to either. This experience, unlike that of ancient shamans who gained social recognition, often results in ridicule or indifference for the modern abductee.

Other Features

The magazine also includes brief news items: Javier Sierra, director of the magazine Más Allá, is getting married on June 24th, an anniversary of the Arnold case, a significant event in ufology. Additionally, criminologist Pili Abeijón is releasing her first book, 'Asesinos en Serie' (Serial Killers), which analyzes the minds of multiple murderers. A historical photograph is presented, featuring prominent Spanish ufologists Felix Ares de Blas, Juan Jose Benítez, Vicente Juan Ballester Olmos, and Antonio Ribera, noting their eventual divergence of views and even legal disputes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of ufological and astroarchaeological claims, emphasizing skepticism and the search for rational explanations. The magazine questions sensationalist theories, highlighting the influence of science fiction and psychological factors. There is a clear editorial stance favoring a rational and critical approach to mysteries, while acknowledging the enduring fascination with the unknown and the human need for myth and meaning. The issue also touches upon the broader cultural context of mystery and the paranormal, including the phenomenon of serial killers and the evolution of abduction narratives.