Misterios - No 120

Magazine Overview

This issue of MISTERIOS Y FENOMENOS INSOLITOS is dated March 2011, marking the 120th issue and the 11th year of its publication. Directed by Fernando García, the magazine positions itself as 'A place to meet mysteries...' and is published monthly. The cover features a dark, atmospheric graveyard scene and highlights several key articles, with the lead story being 'La Cosmogonía en la antigüedad' (Cosmogony in Antiquity).

Editorial: Como nunca

The editorial, written by Director Fernando García, begins with a personal reflection on his recent experiences with a poltergeist phenomenon and the challenges he has faced with his computer equipment, leading to data loss. Despite these setbacks, he assures readers that the magazine will continue to be published regularly. He announces a special upcoming issue with interviews, articles, and opinions on a controversial and timely topic, potentially a monographic issue. García details a year-long investigation into a 'girl on the curve' legend, involving extensive audio and video recording, which yielded unusual phenomena like psychophonies, strange photos, and temperature drops. He mentions that such investigations are often conducted under pseudonyms to protect confidentiality. The editorial emphasizes the magazine's commitment to bringing interesting content about enigmas and mysteries to its readers and invites reader participation.

Articles and Features

La Cosmogonía en la antigüedad (Cosmogony in Antiquity)

Authored by Nuria Álvarez Ortega, this article explores the origins of the universe according to various ancient cultures. It begins with the Big Bang theory, describing the universe's expansion and cooling, leading to the formation of galaxies, stars, and our solar system. The article then delves into different creation myths, including those of the Egyptians, Vikings, Sumerians, Dogons of Africa, Tiv of Nigeria, Akan of Ghana, Mesoamerican peoples (mentioning Ometecundi and the four Tezcatlipocas), and the Maori creation myth involving Rangi (sky) and Papa (earth). It also touches upon the creation narratives of the Bambara, the Egyptian creation from a cosmic egg, and the Hindu concept of Purusha. The article highlights recurring themes such as the primordial egg, divine sacrifice, and the cyclical nature of creation and destruction, referencing the Hopi, Hindu, Greco-Latin, Celtic, Mayan, and Aztec traditions. It concludes by mentioning the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) as a modern scientific endeavor to understand the universe's fundamental questions.

Entrevista a Francisco Aguilar Pinal

This interview, conducted by Moisés Garrido Vázquez, features Francisco Aguilar Piñal, author of 'La quimera de los dioses'. Piñal, a doctor in Philosophy and Letters, discusses his journey from religious belief to atheism, driven by a passion for scientific knowledge and truth. He describes the difficulty of shedding inherited religious beliefs and the social challenges of openly identifying as an atheist. Piñal emphasizes the happiness derived from intellectual honesty and freedom from religious conditioning, particularly the concept of sin. His book, 'La quimera de los dioses', reportedly explores current scientific theories in fields like neurology, biology, and cosmology, which challenge animistic and theological postulates.

Un papel cuadriculado (A Squared Paper)

Authored by Mir Rodriguez Corderl, this article's content is not detailed in the provided text.

La Cañada de los Duendes (The Glen of the Goblins)

Authored by Eulogio Soto Mahe, this article's content is not detailed in the provided text.

Música del Diablo (Devil's Music)

Authored by Rosa Santizo Pareja, this article's content is not detailed in the provided text.

Entre selvas y desierto: OVNIs en África (Between Jungles and Desert: UFOs in Africa)

Authored by Scott Corrales, this article likely discusses UFO sightings and phenomena in African regions.

La Máquina del Tiempo (The Time Machine)

Authored by Joaquín Abenza Moreno, this article explores the concept and theories surrounding time travel.

Historia ignorada: La Chincana del Inca (Ignored History: The Inca's Chincana)

Authored by Débora Goldstem, this article delves into a lesser-known aspect of Inca history, possibly related to a specific site or practice known as 'La Chincana'.

Investigación: El orfanato abandonado de Tiro Pichón (Investigation: The Abandoned Orphanage of Tiro Pichón)

Authored by Alfonso Neto Virella, this article presents an investigation into an abandoned orphanage.

Psicofonías: El factor humano (Psychophonies: The Human Factor)

Authored by José Ignacio Carmona Sánchez, this article likely examines the role of human perception or influence in psychophonic phenomena.

Parapsicología y método (Parapsychology and Method)

Authored by Fernando García Rodríguez, this article discusses the methodology and principles of parapsychology.

La Muerte: Breve reflexión sobre la Muerte (Death: A Brief Reflection on Death)

Authored by Miguel Ángel Rincón Peña, this article offers a brief reflection on the topic of death.

Publicaciones: Presentación de la revista impresa Avalon (Publications: Presentation of the printed magazine Avalon)

Authored by Nuria Álvarez Ortega, this section likely introduces or reviews the printed magazine 'Avalon'.

Mini: El Lirio (Mini: The Lily)

Authored by Ángel Rivero López, this article's content is not detailed in the provided text.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of mystery, the unexplained, ancient history, mythology, and parapsychology. The editorial stance, as expressed by Fernando García, is one of open inquiry and a commitment to presenting diverse perspectives on enigmatic phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on rational investigation, as highlighted in the interview with Francisco Aguilar Piñal, who advocates for scientific reasoning over religious dogma. The magazine aims to bridge the gap between ancient beliefs and modern understanding, while also investigating contemporary mysteries and unexplained events. The recurring theme of creation myths across cultures underscores a fascination with origins and the human quest for meaning.

This issue of "Misterios y Fenómenos Insólitos" (Mysteries and Unexplained Phenomena), number 120, dated March 2011, features an extensive interview with Francisco Aguilar Piñal, author of the book "La quimera de los dioses" (The Chimera of the Gods). The magazine also includes a fictional short story titled "Dos Mentes, Idea y Media" (Two Minds, Idea and Media) and an article on Mexican folklore concerning "Duendes" (elves or goblins).

Interview with Francisco Aguilar Piñal

The interview, conducted by the magazine's editorial team, delves into Piñal's life and work, particularly his critical examination of religion. Piñal, a historian and philosopher, explains his intellectual journey, which led him to embrace rationalism and atheism. He credits his interest in the 18th century to his doctoral thesis and his subsequent research, which convinced him that this era marked the beginning of modernity and a necessary shift in mindset towards truth.

Piñal's book, "La quimera de los dioses," is presented as a comprehensive encyclopedia of knowledge, analyzing science, philosophy, theology, and religions, with a particular focus on Christianity. He asserts that religions are built on fear and ignorance, and that the concept of a divine creator is rendered unnecessary by scientific discoveries, especially in neurology and biology. He cites scientists like Hawking and the advancements in neuroscience as evidence that the soul and consciousness are functions of the brain, not separate entities.

He criticizes the idea of a supernatural world and argues that the fear of death is a primary driver of religious belief. Piñal also touches upon the historical role of religion in causing conflict and violence, referencing the Bible and the Quran as sources of division. He advocates for a secular society ('laicismo ideológico') based on respect for individual dignity and reason, rather than dogma.

Regarding paranormal phenomena, Piñal expresses skepticism, attributing many such experiences to imagination, fraud, or psychological factors, though he acknowledges two personal mysteries that science has yet to explain: the Ouija board and crop circles.

Short Story: "Dos Mentes, Idea y Media"

This fictional narrative centers on a murder investigation in Paris. Inspector Philip Renoir is called to the scene of the death of Mercedes Alzaga, a numerologist and friend of Joaquín. The investigation uncovers a piece of paper with numerical symbols and a triangle, which Renoir meticulously analyzes. The story weaves in elements of numerology, intrigue, and the personal struggles of Joaquín, who is revealed to be the father of Mercedes' unborn child and is implicated in financial irregularities. The narrative explores themes of deception, loss, and the search for truth amidst complex circumstances.

Article: "La Cañada de los Duendes"

This article explores the folklore surrounding "Duendes" (elves or goblins) in Mexico, particularly in the region of Caracheo, Guanajuato. Eulogio Soto Mahe, an investigator, shares his research and experiences with these mythical beings. Duendes are described as elemental nature spirits, guardians of forests and rivers, often small and mischievous, but also possessing magical abilities. The article details different types of Duendes (Black, Grey, Yellow, Blue) and their characteristics, noting that children are more likely to see them. It mentions that these beings are intolerant of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, who is said to have banished them. The article also touches upon alleged sightings and experiences with Duendes in ancient Mayan, Aztec, and Totonac cultures, and contemporary accounts from Mexico.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of mystery, the unexplained, and alternative perspectives on reality. The interview with Francisco Aguilar Piñal clearly aligns with a rationalist and scientific viewpoint, challenging traditional religious beliefs and advocating for critical thinking. The inclusion of a fictional mystery story and an article on folklore suggests an interest in the enigmatic and the supernatural, albeit from different angles – one through investigative narrative and the other through cultural traditions and legends. The editorial stance appears to be one that encourages readers to question, investigate, and seek knowledge from diverse sources, while maintaining a critical and rational approach to phenomena.

This issue of "Misterios" (No. 120, March 2011) explores two distinct yet intriguing themes: the controversial perception of Heavy Metal music and a comprehensive look at UFO sightings in Africa. The magazine features articles that delve into the cultural and societal reactions to these phenomena, presenting historical accounts, witness testimonies, and theoretical discussions.

Música del Diablo: Heavy Metal and Societal Perceptions

The issue opens with an article titled "Música del Diablo" (Music of the Devil), which addresses the common criticism and misunderstanding surrounding Heavy Metal music. The author, Rosa Santizo Pareja, argues that many critics condemn the genre without actually listening to the music or understanding its lyrics, often associating it with negative elements like drugs, sex, and alcohol. This ignorance, the article suggests, stems from a fear of anything different or outside the perceived norm. The piece highlights that Heavy Metal, along with Rock and other forms of metal, expresses a wide range of human passions, stories, legends, and even biblical narratives, often with a strong cultural and poetic depth. It mentions various Spanish bands, including Mago de Oz, Habeas Corpus, and Tierra Santa, praising their lyrical content and musical expression. The article also touches upon anti-establishment themes in some songs, addressing social issues like animal experimentation and the mistreatment of women.

Ufología: UFOs in Africa

The second major section, "Ufología," focuses on UFO phenomena, with a significant portion dedicated to sightings in Africa under the headline "Entre selvas y desiertos: OVNIS EN ÁFRICA" (Between Jungles and Deserts: UFOs in Africa). This section meticulously documents various encounters and sightings across the continent.

Early African Encounters

The article begins by referencing Mary Kingsley's 1895 account from her book "Travels in West Africa." Kingsley reported seeing violet balls of light near the Lago Noovi, which local guides identified as "Aku" (Demons). The text notes that information about UFO phenomena in regions like Africa has been scarce due to cultural and religious perceptions, where such events might be interpreted as ancestral visitations.

Mid-20th Century Sightings

The narrative then moves to the post-1947 era, following the Kenneth Arnold sighting. It details several cases from the 1950s:

• 1952, South Africa: Four individuals in a car witnessed a glowing green ball of light near Laingsburg, which followed their vehicle and illuminated the interior.
• 1954, Zimbabwe (then Rhodesia): Six-year-old John Flanagan reported seeing five or six disc-shaped objects in the sky over his family's farm.
• 1951, Zimbabwe: A witness reported seeing an object described as "two elliptical plates of little depth" hovering silently over a farm.
• 1956, Zambia: A railway worker in Ndola reported seeing a round, silver object that hovered for four minutes before disappearing.

The article highlights the work of investigator Cynthia Hind and her network in collecting these accounts.

The 1970s African Wave

The 1970s saw a surge in reported UFO activity in Africa, particularly in West Africa:

• 1974, Liberia: Pilot Bill Stockwell and co-pilot Frank Wey encountered a large, spherical grey object that blocked their path and pursued their plane over the Liberian jungle. The object was described as having uniform indentations and was seen by other pilots.
• 1974, Nigeria: A Pan American pilot reported seeing a luminous, pulsating object shaped like a "coffee cup."
• 1974, Senegal: Thirteen people, including Felice Ravolo, Commissioner of Internal Affairs, witnessed the landing of a UFO with a crew member.
• 1974, Nigeria: A child reportedly found enormous, three-toed humanoid footprints near a beach.

Later Cases and Abductions

The issue also covers later incidents and the growing phenomenon of alien abductions:

• 1975, South Africa: The case of Danie van Graan in Loxton, who reported seeing a metallic, oval-shaped object that landed and from which a tall, thin, hairy humanoid figure emerged. Van Graan fired at the figure, which then re-entered the object before it departed.
• 1992, South Africa: A woman known as Gamida reported encounters with a hooded figure and luminous objects, including a sensation of being violated.
• South Africa: The case of Charmaine, who experienced unexplained events, including sleepwalking and a strange scar, leading her to read books on alien abductions.

The article notes that abduction accounts often differ in Africa, sometimes involving interpretations of ancestral spirits or 'shaves' rather than the typical 'greys' described in Western accounts.

Time Travel Theories

Another article, "La Máquina del Tiempo" (The Time Machine), explores the concept of time travel. It discusses the theories of Russian scientist Novikov and Albert Einstein's Theory of Relativity. Dr. Mark Kidger is cited as explaining Novikov's ideas on the possibility of constructing a time machine, the paradoxes involved, and their potential consequences. The article suggests that virtual reality technology is advancing towards enabling shared sensory experiences, hinting at future possibilities related to manipulating space-time.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Misterios" maintains its focus on the unexplained, paranormal, and fringe science. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting documented cases and theoretical discussions without necessarily endorsing them as fact, but rather as subjects worthy of investigation. The magazine encourages readers to consider alternative explanations and to question conventional narratives, particularly in the realms of music criticism and extraterrestrial phenomena. There's a clear emphasis on historical documentation and witness accounts, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the topics covered.

Title: Misterios y Fenómenos Insólitos
Issue: 120
Date: March 2011

This issue of "Misterios y Fenómenos Insólitos" (Mysteries and Unexplained Phenomena) delves into the intriguing realms of time travel, historical enigmas, and paranormal investigations.

The Time Machine: Physics and Possibilities

The first major article, "La Máquina del Tiempo" (The Time Machine), explores the scientific concept of time. It begins by contrasting the classical view of time as an inexorable, absolute, and unidirectional magnitude with the revolutionary ideas introduced by Albert Einstein's theories of relativity.

Einstein's Special Relativity, proposed in 1905, introduced the concepts of length contraction and time dilation. The article explains that for an observer, a moving object appears shorter in the direction of motion, and time passes more slowly for a moving observer compared to a stationary one, provided the relative speed is significant (approaching the speed of light).

Later, Einstein's General Relativity further intertwined space and time, making them dependent on each other. However, the speed of light remained an absolute constant in his theories, representing the maximum speed achievable in the universe.

The article then shifts focus to the possibility of constructing a time machine, referencing a presentation by Russian physicist Igor Novikov. Novikov reportedly used the logical method of "reductio ad absurdum" to argue that while there's no known physical law preventing time travel, the practical construction of such a machine remains a significant challenge. He posits that time is like a river flowing in one direction, but it might be possible to alter its course or create a "loop" by modifying the space-time continuum, perhaps through phenomena like black holes.

Novikov's theory is based on the existence of subatomic particles that can travel faster than light (tachyons). If such particles exist, time would theoretically stop for them at the speed of light and run backward beyond it. The article touches upon potential paradoxes, such as encountering oneself in the past, suggesting that history might not be alterable, or that infinite parallel universes could exist.

Historical Enigma: The Chinkana del Inca

The second significant section, "Historia ignorada" (Ignored History), investigates the "Chinkana del Inca" in Cusco, Peru. This part of the magazine focuses on historical documents and research related to this mysterious site.

It highlights the work of "Crónica Subterránea" (Underground Chronicle), a blog dedicated to uncovering lesser-known aspects of history, particularly in South America. The article mentions an interview with Anselm Pi Rambla, whose report "Túneles Subterráneos bajo los Andes" (Underground Tunnels beneath the Andes) was a pivotal moment for Crónica Subterránea.

The core of this section is the presentation of a previously unpublished document from the 17th century, obtained from the Regional Archive of Cusco. This document, a translation of archival records, details an agreement between a priest, Alonso Fernández de Velasco, and the Dominican convent of Santo Domingo in Cusco. Father Velasco sought permission to search for "el tesoro del ynga" (the Inca's treasure) within the convent, promising to donate half of any treasure found to the convent.

The document, dated January 28, 1642, outlines the authorization granted by the prior and other religious figures of the convent to Velasco. It specifies the terms of the agreement, including the division of any discovered treasure and the legal framework governing the search. The text is presented in its original Spanish, with annotations and explanations provided by the magazine.

Paranormal Investigation: Tiro Pichón

The third main article, "El Orfanato abandonado de Tiro Pichón" (The Abandoned Orphanage of Tiro Pichón), details a paranormal investigation conducted at the Tiro Pichón estate in Jabugo, Huelva, Spain.

Formerly a recreational residence for a marquis known for his passion for skeet shooting, the estate later served as a home for orphans and children with disabilities. The investigation was carried out by a group of researchers, including Alfonso Neto Virella and Débora Goldstem, who aimed to explore the reported phenomena.

Upon arriving at the abandoned estate in the evening, the team set up their equipment on the third floor. They began to hear unexplained voices and screams, seemingly coming from the first floor, which they initially dismissed as impossible given their location. However, they soon realized that the sounds were audible to them as well.

As the investigation progressed, the team attempted to communicate with any potential entities by asking questions. This resulted in loud door slams on the first floor. The activity intensified throughout the night, with persistent banging sounds resembling someone moving through the rooms and closing doors.

The researchers collected various "psychophonies" (electronic voice phenomena), including the sounds of children's voices, singing, and screams. The most impactful recording was made in the changing rooms on the first floor, where footsteps and the sound of doors closing were detected, suggesting a presence.

The article concludes by noting that the investigation was part of a larger effort by the "Grupo de Parapsicología El Misterio" from Isla Cristina (Huelva).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Misterios y Fenómenos Insólitos" consistently explores the intersection of science, history, and the unexplained. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting scientific theories alongside historical mysteries and paranormal accounts without necessarily endorsing any single explanation. The magazine aims to bring to light "ignored history" and "unexplained phenomena," encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional understanding. The use of historical documents, scientific theories, and firsthand accounts of paranormal investigations reflects a commitment to exploring diverse facets of the mysterious and the unknown.

This issue of Misterios magazine, number 120, dated March 2011, focuses on the intersection of the human factor with paranormal phenomena. The cover headline, 'El factor humano' (The Human Factor), sets the tone for explorations into how individual psychology influences and interacts with the unexplained.

Psicofonías: El Factor Humano

The lead article, authored by José Ignacio Carmona Sánchez, delves into the subjective nature of paranormal phenomenology, suggesting that its epicenter lies within the unknown faculties of the human being. This perspective leads to a challenge in precisely typifying parapsychological processes, as each case is individualized by the unique psychology of the person involved. The article highlights the difficulty in laboratory settings due to rudimentary control techniques that may not account for the full spectrum of human consciousness and its potential influence. Carmona Sánchez discusses the concept of a 'sixth sense' and how it allows humans to determine the unpredictable. He notes that psychophonies, unlike purely subjective experiences, offer objective statistical incidence, with an increasing number of communications over time suggesting the operator's prominence. While many amateurs abandon experiments due to a lack of immediate results ('psi-missing'), consistent experimentation yields rewards. A key differentiator is that contact is more readily established if the experimenter holds a favorable opinion towards paranormal phenomena, citing Schmeidler's test (sheep-goat test) and Zener card experiments as evidence of this bias. Carmona Sánchez shares an anecdote about a subject who achieved successful recordings with an old cassette recorder but failed with technologically improved devices, suggesting that psychological factors and the experimental environment play a crucial role.

Parapsicología y Su Estudio

Fernando García Rodríguez's article explores the evolution of parapsychology as a scientific discipline. He traces efforts since the early 20th century to gain its recognition alongside traditional sciences, moving away from the term 'metapsychics'. Key institutions like the Argentine Institute of Parapsychology, St Joseph's College, Duke University, and Leningrad University are mentioned for their pioneering work in the 1950s and 60s. The article highlights the contributions of figures like William James and especially Joseph B. Rhine, considered a pivotal figure in parapsychology. García Rodríguez discusses the challenges in establishing methodological approaches and the development of classifications for paranormal phenomena, distinguishing between physical (psychokinesis/PK) and mental (ESP) manifestations. He details experiments using Zener cards to assess ESP, including telepathy, precognition, and clairvoyance, and notes the importance of strict observation and analysis in such research. The article also touches upon the public perception of parapsychology, acknowledging the ridicule it has faced but emphasizing the continued recording of cases that warrant scientific attention.

The Experimentation

This section details the practical application of parapsychological testing, particularly with Zener cards. García Rodríguez describes how different tests are conducted for telepathy, clairvoyance, and precognition. He recounts two personal case studies: one where a subject achieved 100% accuracy in clairvoyance tests, demonstrating an extraordinary ability that eventually frightened the subject, and another where a subject's results were statistically insignificant, falling within the expected range of chance. Both experiments were conducted under strict observation to rule out fraud. The article notes that while these abilities can be developed, they may also cease to manifest over time.

Breve reflexión sobre la Muerte (Brief Reflection on Death)

Miguel Angel Rincón Peña offers a philosophical reflection on death, defining it as the extinction of the homeostatic process and the end of life. He argues against fearing death, advocating for preparation and viewing life as a journey towards it. Peña discusses various beliefs about death, including the continuation of energy, reincarnation, and the cessation of existence. He notes that death has been a constant source of inspiration in art and culture, personified as 'La parca' (the Grim Reaper) or 'La pálida dama' (the pale lady). The article suggests that contemplating death is healthy and a natural part of life, but should not become an obsession.

Revista AVALON: Presentación de la versión impresa

Nuria Alvarez Ortega reports on the presentation of the printed version of the magazine 'Avalon enigmas y misterios' in Seville on February 11, 2011. The event marked the transition of the magazine from a digital format to a physical publication, fulfilling reader demand. The presentation highlighted the magazine's journey, acknowledging key figures like director Alberto Luis Fernández, communication master José Antonio Colmet, José Manuel García Bautista, Rosa Santize, and the author herself. Luis Mariano Fernández, an investigator and disseminator of mystery, served as the guest of honor, delivering a conference on the Camino de Santiago. The event celebrated the tangible form of 'Avalon', a dream that had taken shape.

Mini Investigaciones (Mini Investigations)

This section presents a series of field investigations conducted by the magazine's team.

El Lirio Investigation

Angel Rivero López recounts an investigation in El Lirio, a small, depopulated village in Huelva, Spain, rumored to be a site of paranormal activity. The investigation was prompted by a local mayor's alleged offer to pay for fabricated paranormal stories to attract tourism, which the investigator refused. During the first visit in May 2010, results were minimal, yielding only a faint psychophony and a fleeting visual sighting of an aggressive-looking man. A subsequent visit on June 12, 2010, with additional researchers, produced more significant results, including clearer psychophonies, interference on walkie-talkies guiding the team, detection of strong magnetic fields, and unusual camera activity. A third visit on November 12, 2010, also yielded strange lights and a powerful, complaining psychophony, along with photographic evidence of nebulas. The article notes that the location has a history of conflict, with potential links to reprisals during the Spanish Civil War.

Other Mini Investigations

Brief mentions of other investigations include the detection of strange lights and a powerful psychophony near an old church in El Lirio. There is also a mention of a walkie-talkie communication where a voice seemed to comment on an investigator's fear. The article includes an advertisement for a jewelry store and a link to a website related to the El Lirio investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores paranormal phenomena, parapsychology, and unexplained events, often through personal investigations and case studies. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting evidence and personal experiences while acknowledging the challenges of scientific validation and the subjective nature of many phenomena. There is a clear interest in documenting and analyzing cases that fall outside conventional scientific understanding, encouraging readers to consider the 'human factor' in these occurrences. The magazine also engages with broader themes like death and the presentation of related media, such as the 'Avalon' magazine.