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Misterios - No 144
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This issue of Misterios y Fenómenos Inolitos, Volume XIII, Number 144, dated March 2013, is a free monthly magazine directed by Fernando García Rodríguez. The cover prominently features the title 'MISTERIOS' with a black ribbon and '11-M', indicating that the issue is dedicated…
Magazine Overview
This issue of Misterios y Fenómenos Inolitos, Volume XIII, Number 144, dated March 2013, is a free monthly magazine directed by Fernando García Rodríguez. The cover prominently features the title 'MISTERIOS' with a black ribbon and '11-M', indicating that the issue is dedicated in memory of this event. The cover art depicts a knight in armor, a rooster, and a castle, with headlines hinting at themes of legends, terror, and supernatural entities.
Editorial: Serenpidia bribribrip
In the editorial, Director Fernando García explores the concept of 'serendipia' (serendipity), defined as a fortunate discovery made by chance while looking for something else. He traces its origin to the story of the 'Three Princes of Serendip' and discusses its presence in science and literature. García also delves into the concept of 'sincronicidades' (synchronicity), developed by Carl G. Jung and physicist Wolfgang Pauli, which posits that two seemingly unrelated events can be linked by a deeper meaning, possibly reflecting the collective unconscious. He shares a personal anecdote about a serendipitous investigation in Cáceres, suggesting that the universe conspires in our favor.
Featured Articles and Content:
Book Reviews:
- 'De Tartessos a Marte: Guía de Enigmas y Misterios de la Provincia de Huelva (1)' by Ignacio Garzón González: This is presented as the first guide to enigmas and mysteries of the Huelva province, featuring 27 research articles that explore strange phenomena, apparitions, rituals, and historical mysteries.
- 'El Maestro del Prado y las Pinturas Proféticas' by Javier Sierra: This book is described as an adventure that will change the reader's perception of art and its function. It follows Javier Sierra's initiatory journey through the Prado Museum in Madrid, guided by Dr. Luis Fovel, who deciphers the enigmas within Renaissance paintings.
Table of Contents:
The magazine includes a detailed table of contents, listing articles such as:
- Editorial: Serenpidia bribribrip by Fernando García Rodríguez
- Non Nobis Domine: El Puerto del Gallo by Sebastián Carbajosa Castilla
- Mundos Misteriosos: Timor, la isla del terror by Eulogio Soto Mahe
- Misterios: Infestación de entidades malignas by Eulogio Soto Mahe
- Profecías de los Papas: ...Petrus Romanus by Sebastián Carbajosa Castilla
- Nocturnia Serenitas: Rememoraciones by El Príncipe Contrahecho
- Leyendas: Fantasmas de Sancti Petri by Ángel Carretero Olmedo
- Cuentos Fantásticos: Poemándote by Mirta Rodríguez Corderí
- Detalles de la Historia: Peñahora by Alfonso López Beltrán
El Puerto del Gallo
This article by Sebastián Carbajosa Castilla explores the legend of the Rooster of Barcelos in Portugal. The legend tells of a pilgrim wrongly accused of theft who, before his execution, declared that a roasted rooster would come to life and crow to prove his innocence. The article also touches upon the etymological origins of Portugal's name, with theories linking it to 'Portucal' and the Roman city of 'Portus Cale', and notes the shared national symbol of the rooster with France.
Non Nobis Domine: Portugal Templario
This section delves into the significant role of the Templars in the creation and evolution of Portugal. It highlights how the Templars protected pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago and participated in the Reconquista. The article discusses the influence of Burgundy and Cluny on the Portuguese monarchy and the eventual formation of the Ordem de Cristo from the ashes of the Temple. It details the founding of the Temple, listing its nine initial knights, and explores the connection between the Portuguese nobility and the Order. The text mentions key figures like Alfonso VI, his daughters Urraca and Teresa, and the Burgundian dukes who married them. It also touches upon the reform of San Benito and the rise of the Cistercian monks.
#### Los Fundadores del Temple
A sidebar provides information on the founding of the Knights Templar, discussing the debated dates of its provisional founding (1118 or 1119) and the potential catalyst of an attack on pilgrims. It lists the nine original knights and mentions other associated figures like Gondemaro, Hugo de Rigaud, and Count Hugo of Champagne.
#### Portugal Templario
This part of the article explains how Portugal's statehood was aided by the Templars. It details the division of Alfonso VI's kingdom among his daughters and the subsequent marriages that linked Burgundy to Portugal. The influence of Cluny and the Cistercian reform is discussed, leading to the call for the 'Poor Knights of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon'. The article mentions the Battle of Ourique in 1139 and the subsequent acclamation of Afonso I as king, with the Temple's involvement.
#### Los Castillos del Tajo
This section focuses on the Templar presence in Portugal through its castles along the Tagus River. The route begins in Alcántara, Spain, and moves into Portugal. Key locations discussed include:
- Castelo Branco: A Templar castle, once ceded to the Portuguese crown.
- Torres Novas: A fortress with possible Celtic, Roman, or even Greek origins, later occupied by the Templars. It features a Manueline-style tile panel depicting a historical siege.
- Vila Velha de Ródão: Features the Torre de las Portas de Rodão, a watchtower with possible Visigothic origins, later rebuilt by the Templars.
- Belver Castle: Originally a Sanjuanista castle, built on land granted by King Sancho I. It served as a royal treasury and a Hospital sede.
- Abrantes Castle: A strategic site with Roman origins, later fortified by the Templars.
- Torres Novas: Described as a park with a children's area and a well of wishes. The castle's exterior features a Manueline tile panel depicting a siege in 1184.
#### Gualdim Pais y el Convento de Cristo
This section highlights Gualdim Pais, born in 1118, who became the fourth Master of the Temple in Portugal. He was instrumental in founding several castles and began the construction of the Convento de Cristo in Tomar in 1160. The article notes his defense of Tomar in 1190 and his death in 1195, with his remains interred in the Church of Santa Maria do Olival in Tomar. He is noted for imposing a significant tithe of 25%.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around historical mysteries, legends, and the significant influence of the Knights Templar in the Iberian Peninsula, particularly in Portugal. The magazine adopts an investigative and divulgative stance, presenting historical accounts, legends, and theories related to these subjects. There is a clear interest in uncovering hidden histories and exploring the connections between ancient orders, historical events, and geographical locations. The editorial also emphasizes the philosophical concept of serendipity and synchronicity, suggesting a broader interest in the interconnectedness of events and the potential for meaningful coincidences.
This issue of *Misterios* magazine, number 144, dated March 2013, is titled 'Non Nobis Domine' and features a cover story on 'TIMOR La isla del terror' (Timor: The Island of Terror). The magazine delves into historical, esoteric, and mysterious topics, with a strong focus on the Templars, the Order of Christ in Portugal, and the enigmatic island of Timor.
The Convento de Cristo in Tomar
The magazine extensively covers the Convento de Cristo in Tomar, Portugal, highlighting its historical importance and architectural evolution. It notes that the construction began as a Templar stronghold and was later expanded over five centuries by the Order of Christ. The complex showcases a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Manueline, Renaissance, Mannerist, and Baroque styles, spanning 50,000 square meters with eight cloisters, numerous cells, and dependencies. The article mentions the presence of Orbs of Magellan and stylized red crosses of Christ, similar to Templar crosses. The central 'Charola' is described as a polygonal church, possibly inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre or the Mosque of Omar, with a Manueline expansion that gives it a key-like shape, reminiscent of the lost Templar church in Paris. The Charola's interior is decorated with frescoes depicting Templar echoes and figures like Bafomet and Saint Sebastian. A fountain in the D. João III cloister, shaped like a Greek cross, is also noted.
The Order of Christ and Templar Legacy
The issue details the dissolution of the Templar Order by Pope Clement V in 1312 and the transfer of their assets. In Portugal, King D. Dinis, acknowledging the nation's debt to the Templars, did not transfer their properties to the Order of the Hospital but instead imposed conditions on them. He proposed the creation of a new order under the Cistercian mantle, the Ordo Militiae Jesu Christi, based on the Calatrava rule. The Templar João Lourenço became the second Master of this new order. The magazine explains the papal bull 'Ad ea ex quibus' from 1319, which authorized the creation of the Order of Christ, ostensibly to defend the southern borders against Maghreb incursions. The Order's early seats were in Castro Marim, then Castelo Branco, and finally Tomar in 1357.
Churches of Tomar
The article explores several churches in Tomar. The Igreja de São João Baptista (Saint John the Baptist) is noted for its Templar origins, evident in its bell tower and octagonal lantern. The rest of the church is primarily Manueline, with a later restoration. A curious detail is the bronze door knocker shaped like a sideways '8,' symbolizing infinity. Santa Maria do Olivar (Santa Maria do Olival) is highlighted as the crown jewel. Its bell tower, with three levels, was likely used as a watchtower. The church was built by Gualdim Pais in 1160 on the site of a Benedictine monastery. Originally Romanesque, it underwent a Gothic renovation in the late 13th century, featuring ogival arches and a rose window. An inscription within a circle on the portal shows a pentacle or pentagram. Inside, a stone carving of a crowned figure, likely the Virgin Mary, is present.
Esoteric Keys and Symbolism
The magazine delves into esoteric aspects, particularly concerning the Templars and their potential connection to early Christian traditions. It discusses the 'Tree of Jesse' genealogy of Jesus, as presented in the Gospel of Matthew, and its symbolic representation. The article suggests that the Templars, through their access to documents from Jerusalem, might have uncovered information related to the Virgin Mary's lineage, potentially linking her to the Davidic line. The symbolism of the rooster, representing Christ and the victory of light over darkness, is explored. The pentagram is also discussed in relation to Venus and its astronomical significance, linking it to the eight steps leading into the Santa Maria do Olivar temple.
Lisbon and its Historical Sites
The magazine takes a detour to Lisbon, describing its historical significance as 'Olisipo' and its various conquerors. The Castelo de São Jorge is mentioned, a former Islamic alcazaba with eighteen towers offering panoramic views of the city. The Torre de Belém, built in the early 16th century under the Order of Christ, is described as a Gothic or Manueline masterpiece, decorated with crosses of Christ and symbols of discovery. The Jerónimos Monastery, a prime example of Manueline architecture, is also featured. It was commissioned by King Manuel I after Vasco da Gama's return from discovering the sea route to India and houses the remains of Portuguese royalty and notable figures like Luís de Camões and Fernando Pessoa.
The Mystery of Vasco da Gama's Tomb
A peculiar detail regarding Vasco da Gama's tomb is presented. While historical records indicate his death in 1524, an inscription found in Olivenza, Portugal, states his death in 'mil quinhentos e vinte e tres anos' (1523). This discrepancy, along with the fact that the inscription was commissioned by his son António da Gama, raises questions and is presented as a historical mystery.
Timor: The Island of Terror
The cover story focuses on the island of Timor, described as a place of atrocities by Indonesian paramilitary militias and a former Portuguese colony. The island is characterized by its hermetic rituals and magical practices. Legends speak of a 'lost race' possibly visited by Vikings and Greeks, and of beings arriving from the sky in 'flying boats' and subterranean humanities. The dense jungles of Timor are said to harbor unique and evolved life forms, including two-headed serpents and deadly insects. The article mentions the comparison of Timor to Arthur Conan Doyle's 'The Lost World.'
Mysterious Peoples and Legends of Timor
Timor is depicted as a 'melting pot of races,' with influences from India, Australia, Papua New Guinea, and Malaysia. The magazine discusses the belief in totemic animals and the 'Lé-Káli' and 'Mimítu' creatures on the island of Ataúro, described as fantastic beings with serpent heads and monstrous human bodies. The article also touches upon the theory of 'lost races' and mutant human forms, citing anthropologist Mendes Correa's hypothesis of a primitive, undifferentiated race in Timor. The discovery of racial mysteries by naturalist Alfred Russell Wallace is also mentioned.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently explores themes of hidden history, esoteric symbolism, ancient mysteries, and unexplained phenomena. The 'Non Nobis Domine' (Not for us, Lord) title suggests a focus on divine or hidden purposes behind historical events and mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of investigative journalism, presenting historical facts alongside speculative theories and legends, encouraging readers to ponder the unexplained aspects of history and human experience. The recurring mention of Templars and their legacy underscores a fascination with secret societies and their influence on historical events and architecture.
This issue of "Misterios" (Issue 144, March 2013) delves into the enigmatic cultural, anthropological, and paranormal aspects of Timor and other regions. It explores ancient myths, religious practices, and alleged encounters with supernatural entities, presenting a blend of scientific inquiry and esoteric exploration.
Timor: A Tapestry of Myths and Peoples
The magazine begins by discussing the origins of the Timorese people, referencing scientific studies and anthropological theories. It touches upon the debate surrounding their racial classification, with some suggesting links to Papuan Negrito populations and others proposing a mix of Melanesian and Indonesian bloodlines. The presence of pygmy populations like the Fatu-Matabia and the existence of red-haired natives are also noted, hinting at diverse migratory influences.
Linguistic and Cultural Diversity
Timor is characterized by its linguistic richness, with over 20 languages and dialects spoken. Unlike other islands in the Malay Archipelago, Timor was not significantly influenced by Islam or Hinduism, retaining its animistic traditions and ancestor worship. The article highlights the Tetum people's principal deity, Marómak, the 'shining one,' and their goddess Rai Lolon, emphasizing the connection between the male divinity and the sky.
Ancestor Worship and Rituals
The cult of the dead and ancestral spirits is a central element of Timorese religion. Fertility rites are also prevalent. Legends speak of souls gathering on the sacred mountain, Pico Cablac. The Tetum believe humans are composed of 'klammar' (soul) and 'lolon' (body), with harmony maintained through rituals honoring the dead. Offerings of food and sacrificed animals are common.
Cosmic Architecture and Symbolism
Timorese architecture, particularly the 'cosmic houses' of the Tetum people in Vikeke, symbolizes the cosmos. These rectangular houses represent human body parts and often feature feminine figures. The main entrance is considered 'masculine,' symbolizing the 'eye' of the house, while the supporting posts are the 'bones.' The interior of the house is seen as a 'woman's womb,' where important rituals are performed. A central pillar acts as a conduit for ancestral spirits.
Headhunters and Ancient Practices
The magazine recounts the practices of Timorese headhunters, detailing rituals like the 'loraçá' dance, where warriors would dance around severed enemy heads. The belief was that this transferred the vanquished's warrior virtues and prevented their souls from causing harm. While officially prohibited, the practice reportedly persisted. The article also notes the reemergence of such violence by pro-Indonesian militias.
Mystical Beliefs and Practices
Timorese culture is rich with beliefs about the supernatural. The use of betel leaves for chewing, similar to coca in the Andes, is mentioned for its stimulating effects. Curanderos, or healers, known as 'mata-blolo,' use betel and lime to enhance their abilities, massaging patients and diagnosing ailments. They also employ hallucinogenic plants like 'ai-memeta' and 'ai-pepúti' to induce trances and communicate with spirits.
Ataúro: The Magical Island
Ataúro, a mountainous island near Timor, is described as a place where animistic traditions persist. Legends tell of Ataúro being once part of a larger island, separated by a giant eel named 'émang.' The eel is associated with virility and procreation, a common theme in Indonesian, Melanesian, and Polynesian folklore. Ancient stone and wooden idols representing ancestral spirits, 'Báku-Bau' (male) and 'Lebu-Hmoru' (female), are mentioned.
Astronomical Connections and UFO Myths
The article explores possible connections between Timorese myths and extraterrestrial phenomena, particularly the Ataúro people's reverence for celestial bodies like the Sun (Lea), Moon (Hula), and Venus (Ku-Méak). Venus is invoked for curses and misfortunes. Intriguingly, a myth from Ataúro describes two beings, Midó and Keti-Mata, arriving in a celestial 'boat' (a 'beiro') and teaching a man named Kerakia to sculpt statues. This narrative bears striking resemblance to modern alien abduction accounts, interpreted by psychologists as an initiatory myth blending reality and dreams.
Other Myths and Beliefs
Legends also speak of a 'door' between worlds, represented by giant trees, through which spirits could travel. The 'caleic' plant is mentioned as a mythical 'trepadora' that once connected heaven and earth. The interpretation of these myths often links the earth's interior to the maternal womb and trepadors to umbilical cords, reflecting deep-seated cultural symbolism.
Infestation of Malignant Entities
Shifting focus, the magazine presents an article on the 'Infestation of Malignant Entities' causing disturbances in people's lives, particularly in Guanajuato, Mexico. It discusses how actions of past inhabitants, including crimes and satanic cults, can impregnate a place with negative energy, affecting current residents. The article emphasizes the need for faith and spiritual protection against such phenomena, noting that some consider it a matter of state security.
Case Study in Guanajuato
The article details a case in Guanajuato where a home is reportedly infested by entities, causing fear and tension. Residents describe noises, moving objects, and the presence of a palpable, aggressive entity. Despite attempts to address the issue, some religious figures dismiss such occurrences.
Rituals and Spiritual Warfare
A ritual of entity expulsion is described, involving paranormal phenomena that heightened the tension among participants. The article highlights the belief that negative energies can lead to generational curses. It also references the Catholic Church's teachings on the inherent inclination towards evil and the rejection of God in satanic cults.
...Petrus Romanus
This section briefly introduces Saint Malachy of Armagh, a 12th-century Irish bishop known for his prophecies concerning the Popes. It mentions his close relationship with Bernard of Clairvaux and his biography written by Arnald de Wyon.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The issue consistently explores themes of the supernatural, ancient beliefs, and the intersection of mythology with potential paranormal or extraterrestrial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these mysterious aspects of human culture and experience, presenting diverse accounts and interpretations without necessarily endorsing them as factual. The magazine aims to inform and intrigue readers about the unexplained and the esoteric.
Title: MISTERIOS
Issue: 144
Date: March 2013
Cover Headline: PROFECÍAS DE LOS PAPAS (Prophecies of the Popes)
This issue of Misterios magazine, issue 144 from March 2013, is dedicated to exploring the "Prophecies of the Popes," primarily focusing on the list attributed to Saint Malachy and the secrets of Fátima. The magazine delves into the historical context, interpretations, and potential implications of these prophecies.
The Prophecy of the Popes
The article, written by Sebastián Carbajosa Castilla, introduces the "Prophecy of the Popes," a collection of 111 short Latin mottos allegedly compiled by Saint Malachy of Armagh. These mottos are said to allude to the corresponding Popes from 1143 onwards, often through heraldic symbols or biographical connections. The author notes that the list has been subject to commentary, with some critics, like Alfonso Chacón, suggesting it might be a fabrication or part of Vatican intrigues, particularly concerning the period before 1595.
The text highlights the difficulty in definitively linking mottos to Popes, especially for earlier periods, and acknowledges that some mottos are vague. The author mentions that the full list is available online, such as on Wikipedia, and chooses to comment on a selection of mottos, both from earlier and later periods, referencing a documentary series from the 1980s called "Punto de Encuentro."
Several mottos and their corresponding Popes are discussed:
- Vir religiosus (Varón religioso): Described as the vaguest, it is linked to Pius VII (1829-1830), though it could apply to many Popes.
- Ensis Laurentii (La espada de Lorenzo): Corresponds to Gregory VIII (1187-1187), whose coat of arms features two crossed swords.
- Leo sabinus (El león sabino): Linked to Celestine IV (1241-1241), Bishop of Sabina, with a lion on his shield.
- Conciunatur gallus (El predicador galo): Associated with Innocent V (1276-1276), a Frenchman from the Order of Preachers.
- Bos pascens (Buey que pace): Linked to Callistus III (1455-1458), whose shield displays a grazing ox.
- Lilium et rosa (Lirio y rosa): Refers to Urban VIII (1623-1644), alluding to the conflict between France (lily) and England (rose).
- Aquila rapax (El águila rapaz): Associated with Pius VII (1800-1823), who was pressured by Napoleon Bonaparte.
- Crux de cruce (La cruz de las cruces): Linked to Pius IX (1846-1878), the longest-reigning Pope, whose papal insignia features a Greek cross.
- Religio Depopulata (Religión devastada): Refers to Benedict XV (1914-1922), during whose papacy the Marxist Revolution in Russia and the First World War occurred.
- Pastor Angelicus (El pastor angélico): Associated with Pius XII (1939-1958), whose surname Pacelli is linked to the motto, and who restored the cult of the Cross of Caravaca.
The article then moves to more recent Popes:
- Pastor et nauta (Pastor y navegante): John XXIII (1958-1963), Patriarch of Venice.
- Flos florum (La flor de las flores): Paul VI (1963-1978), a devotee of the Virgin Mary, whose coat of arms features three fleurs-de-lis.
- De Medietate Lunae (De la mitad de la Luna): John Paul I (1978-1978), whose name Albino Luciani means "white light," and whose pontificate lasted only 33 days.
- De Labore Solis (De la labor del Sol): John Paul II (1978-2005), known for his extensive travels, and whose life was marked by solar eclipses.
- De Gloria Olivae (De la gloria del olivo): Benedict XVI (Joseph Ratzinger), whose name signifies peace, referencing Benedict XV's efforts to prevent World War I. His coat of arms includes a laurel cross and an olive branch.
The author also touches upon the controversial aspects of Benedict XVI's papacy, including his actions against pederasty and Marcial Maciel, his dealings with Opus Dei, and the "Vatileaks" scandal. The resignation of Pope Benedict XVI is discussed, with speculation about the reasons behind it.
Petrus Romanus
The final motto, "Petrus Romanus," is presented as the apocalyptic conclusion to St. Malachy's prophecy. It foretells a Pope who will shepherd his flock through tribulations, after which the "city of seven hills" (likely Rome) will be destroyed, followed by a final judgment. The article discusses potential candidates for this role, including Cardinal Angelo Scola and Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone.
The Third Secret of Fátima
The magazine connects the papal prophecies with the visions of the Virgin Mary at Fátima, Portugal, in 1917. The Third Secret, revealed much later, is described as a complex vision involving an angel with a flaming sword and a procession of bishops, including a limping bishop dressed in white, reminiscent of the Pope. The article suggests that the current crises within the Church, such as the sexual abuse scandals, might be part of this prophecy.
Antonio Socci is mentioned for his book "El Cuarto Secreto De Fátima," accusing the Vatican and Bertone of concealing parts of the message, which allegedly foretells an apocalyptic crisis of faith and dramatic events for humanity.
Latest Developments
The article notes that with Pope Benedict XVI's resignation, the papacy is in a state of Sede Vacante, and preparations are underway for a new conclave. The author speculates that Benedict XVI might be behind the "deportation" of some collaborators and links Cardinal Bertone to various controversies, including alleged involvement with the P2 masonic lodge.
Other Prophecies and Candidates
Further prophecies are cited, including those from Sor Sofía María Gabriel, who predicted two rival Popes leading to a schism, and Saint Francis of Assisi, who spoke of a non-canonically elected Pope causing a great schism. The Beata Agustina, Ana Catalina Emmerick, is also mentioned for her prophecy about the Church being undermined by a false religion.
Several potential candidates for the papacy are discussed, including:
- Timothy Dolan (Archbishop of New York)
- Marc Ouellet (Canadian, Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops)
- Odilio Pedro Scherer (Archbishop of São Paulo)
- Peter Turkson (Archbishop of Cape Coast, Ghana)
- Luis Tagle (Archbishop of Manila), noted as the youngest candidate.
- Tarcisio Pietro Evasio Bertone (the Camarlengo), whose name and role are seen as significant in relation to the "Petrus Romanus" prophecy.
The article also addresses the "Black Pope" myth, clarifying that it refers to the dominance of the Jesuits, not a literal black Pope.
Bibliographical References
The issue includes a bibliography listing books, articles, and online resources related to the prophecies of the Popes and Fátima, such as works by San Bernardo, Antonio Socci, and articles from "Revista Tiempo," "Wikipedia," and various blogs.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are papal prophecies, the history and future of the Catholic Church, the Vatican, and the interpretation of religious signs and omens. The editorial stance appears to be one of deep interest and investigation into these often-controversial topics, presenting various viewpoints and historical accounts while encouraging readers to consider the potential implications of these prophecies for the future of the Church and the world. The author expresses a personal conviction that the prophecies of Fátima and St. Malachy are interconnected and hold significant meaning for current events.
This issue of Misterios magazine, number 144, dated March 2013, features a special monograph titled "La Sábana Santa y La figura de Jesús" (The Shroud of Turin and the Figure of Jesus).
Fantasmas de Sancti Petri (Ghosts of Sancti Petri)
This article delves into the legends and history of the Sancti Petri islet and its surrounding area in Chiclana, Cádiz. The author, Angel Carretero Olmedo, recounts childhood memories of visiting the prosperous village, which once had its own church, school, cannery, castle, lighthouse, and Civil Guard barracks. Today, the village is in ruins, though there are projects for its reconstruction.
The paleo-topography of the Bay of Cádiz is discussed, referencing ancient geographies like Avieno's Ora Marítima, which noted the existence of an ancient Gaditan archipelago that has since merged due to sedimentation. The founding of Cádiz is attributed to the Phoenicians around 1104 BC, who established their settlement on the main island of this archipelago, which is now the Sancti Petri islet. A temple was founded there, later becoming Phoenician and Roman, with its oracle being highly regarded.
The article explores the legends surrounding Sancti Petri, including its name possibly deriving from San Pedro or 'holy stone' due to the Sanctuary of Melkait (the Gaditan Hercules). A Genoese admiral, Benedetto Zacarías, built a tower on these ruins in the 13th century, followed by another tower in the 17th century and the completion of the castle in the 18th century. This defensive structure was designed to protect that part of the Gaditan coast.
The Caño de Sancti Petri, originating in Puerto Real, flows through San Fernando and Chiclana. In 1929, the land near the estuary was sold to the National Almadrabero Consortium, leading to the construction of houses for fishermen and a cannery, making the area prosperous. However, by the early 1970s, the decline of tuna fishing and the dissolution of the consortium led to the area's decay, with nature gradually reclaiming the ruins and giving rise to legends.
The article highlights two distinct phenomena cataloged by anthropologist Eduardo Arboleda Ballén in Sancti Petri: the apparition of a disheveled 8-year-old girl with black hair, who appears in the old cannery and runs through the ruins, and a man wearing a cassock and brown sandals who moves rapidly in and out of buildings. Witnesses describe the man as having more of a ghost-like appearance than the girl. The author speculates if these could be the spirits of former priests who served the community during its four decades of existence.
Other local legends include a monster sighted around the islet and castle, leaving footprints on the beach. The author's father mentioned this phenomenon in the 1970s. The article notes that historical data on this creature is scarce, with stories passed down through generations. The author considers it a legend worth noting, possibly falling into the realm of urban legends.
Monstruos vegetales en Chiclana (Vegetable Monsters in Chiclana)
This section reports on a study by investigator Jesús Borrego, published in the magazine Espacio y Tiempo in 1991, based on a Diario de Cádiz article from December 1990. The study, titled "Monstruos vegetales en Chiclana," details the discovery of strange fruits and seeds in the garden of Manuel Morales. These were described as having an extraterrestrial origin by a ufologist from Cádiz. The published photographs are described as unsettling, resembling scenes from horror films or 1950s science fiction. The author admits his limited botanical knowledge prevents a definitive explanation but notes that anomalous growth or flowering outside the usual season can be circumstantial evidence of contamination or other phenomena.
The article also touches upon the 'mysterious' aspect of some plant growth, often linked to UFO phenomena, citing the Las Luminarias valley in Mexico as an example of a hot spot for sightings and unusual vegetation. The regional government even prohibited extensive cultivation there to prevent market imbalances.
Peñahora: Un enclave islámico (Peñahora: An Islamic Enclave)
This article by Alfonso Lopez Beltrán discusses Peñahora, a depopulated area situated on a rocky promontory overlooking the Sorbe River, near Humanes and the confluence of the Sorbe and Henares rivers. It was a strategically important Islamic settlement during its time.
By the 9th century, Arabs had conquered most of the Iberian Peninsula, reaching within 350 km of Paris before being defeated at the Battle of Poitiers in 732. In 860, Emir Muhammad I ruled Al-Andalus, facing disunited Christian kingdoms that launched surprise summer raids for plunder and to demoralize border troops. To counter this, Emir Muhammad I ordered the construction of fortresses, including Peñahora. The name "Peñahora" (meaning 'pierced rock' or 'holed rock') likely refers to the erosion at the base of the promontory by the Sorbe River, a process exacerbated when the railway was built in the 19th century.
Peñahora occupied a strategic position in the triangle formed by the confluence of the Sorbe and Henares rivers, overlooking two important valleys. The article notes that other fortresses like Talamanca del Jarama, Madrid, and Toledo were located approximately 50-70 km apart, a distance a horse could cover in two to three hours, allowing for timely warnings of Christian incursions.
Today, only a few remains of the two watchtowers and the base of the wall are visible, hinting at the original layout. An old image shows remnants of the southern wall across the train tracks, in an area now difficult to access. The northeastern watchtower is in poor condition, with its original stones replaced by modern mortar and brickwork, now destroyed. The northern watchtower shows natural, unworked stones overlaid with brickwork, with mortar filling the gaps.
An archaeological study published by the CSIC in 1984, conducted by Basilio Pavón Maldonado, noted findings of pottery. The study highlighted differences in wall construction: the northern watchtower used natural stones with brickwork, while the southern wall featured well-cut stone blocks, similar to those in Madrid and Toledo, suggesting construction during the same era.
Libros (Books)
This section presents a selection of books related to mysteries and enigmas:
- *El Creador* by Alessandro Di Masi
- *El Enigma del Desierto* by Carlos Capella
- *De Tartessos a Marte: Guía de Enigmas y Misterios de la Provincia de Huelva* by Ignacio Garzón González
- *50 lugares mágicos de Andalucía* by Jose manuel frias
- *El Enigma del Bosque* by Laura Mercé
- *Nosotros, los Rosacruces* by Vergara
- *Historia y Misterios de los Rosacruces* by Fernando Miro, Frank Escandell, and George Wembagher
- *I Tego Arcana Dei "El Templo"* by Fernando Miro, Frank Escandell, and George Wembagher
- *Enigmas de Cantabria* by Francisco Reedo Grand
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, historical mysteries, local legends, and archaeological enigmas. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting information and historical accounts with a focus on the unusual and the mysterious. The inclusion of a "Nuevo!" (New!) sticker on the cover suggests a dynamic approach to content, while the "Monográfico" (Monograph) designation indicates in-depth coverage of specific topics, such as the Shroud of Turin in this issue. The magazine also features a poetry section, adding a creative dimension to its content.