News Fortiane - No 09

Magazine Overview

Title: NEWS FORTIANE
Issue: Volume 1, Number 9
Date: October 8, 2008
Publisher: Centro Studi Fortiani
Focus: The world of mystery, ufology, and the unexplained.

Key Articles and Features

Monsignor Balducci, Exorcist of Rome, Passes Away

The issue leads with the news of the death of Monsignor Corrado Balducci at the age of 85. Known for his public appearances discussing Satanism, the occult, and extraterrestrials, Balducci was a theologian, demonologist, and exorcist for the Diocese of Rome. His passing occurred on September 20th, with the news being released later.

Alessandria Celebrates 30 Years Since First UFO Sighting

This section commemorates the 30th anniversary of a significant period of UFO sightings in Alessandria, Italy, which began on September 2, 1978. An object was observed rising from a cornfield and moving at the speed of light. This event was followed by an exceptional series of sightings over two weeks, including close encounters and ground traces, which garnered media attention and involvement from authorities. The Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici (CISU) marked the anniversary with a book and DVD titled "Alessandria 1978 - Allarme UFO." Paolo Toselli, who conducted investigations at the time, explains that these events initiated the "great wave of 1978" across Italy, peaking in December and concluding in January 1979, with nearly 2,000 sightings cataloged by CISU for that year. The article notes how this phenomenon influenced popular culture, citing Steven Spielberg's "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and Japanese animated series.

Turin Shroud Exhibition

A photographic exhibition on the Turin Shroud, promoted by the Torinese Diocesan Commission and realized by the International Center for Sindology, is featured. The exhibition, which has traveled to various Italian cities, presents twenty didactic panels illustrating the history and scientific aspects of the Shroud. The article suggests that the exhibition's presentation, hosted in a religious setting, strongly supports the view that the Shroud is indeed the burial cloth of Jesus Christ, leaving little room for skeptical interpretations.

"Two Steps into Mystery" Meeting

This report covers the VI Meeting "Due Passi nel Mistero," organized by the website www.duepassinelmistero.com and curated by Marisa Uberti. Held in a restaurant in Crespi d'Adda, Bergamo, the event fostered a convivial atmosphere for researchers to share information and personal experiences. The article emphasizes the importance of such gatherings for developing intellectual processes and giving new momentum to original ideas, even those that might otherwise remain unfulfilled. It hints at upcoming publications and discoveries, including a book with unusual content and an archaeological discovery being kept under wraps.

Ancient Vase with First Written Reference to Christ

An archaeological discovery in the Mediterranean has yielded an ancient vase from Asia Minor, dated to the 1st century BC. The vase bears a Greek inscription: "Dia Christou o goistais," which scholars suggest could translate to "For Christ the magician." This inscription, dating to before 50 AD, is considered by archaeologist Franck Goddio to be the earliest written reference to Jesus. The vase is on display in Madrid as part of the "Submerged Treasures of Egypt" exhibition. The article also references a 51 AD letter from Saint Paul as a contemporary reference point. Goddio's research focuses on submerged ancient cities in Egypt, particularly Alexandria, and the potential sinking of these cities due to their heavy structures.

Turin Sighting: "Alien Craft, I Saw 30 UFOs"

Antonella Morra recounts a startling experience in Turin where she witnessed what she described as a swarm of UFOs over Porta Palazzo. She initially mistook fragments reflecting sunlight for airplane wreckage but soon realized they were part of a larger phenomenon. Luminous spheres appeared, and the fragments vanished. Morra, who has had previous sightings, believes humanity is not alone in the universe.

Study on Near-Death Experiences

A three-year study coordinated by the University of Southampton is examining Near-Death Experiences (NDEs) of 1,500 patients who have survived cardiac arrest. The study aims to investigate claims of out-of-body experiences and the possibility of consciousness persisting after brain activity ceases. Dr. Sam Parnia, leading the study, suggests that if consciousness can be proven to exist independently of the brain, it would have profound implications. The study will involve special shelving in intensive care units to test if patients can recall images only visible from above.

"Fantarcheology" Critiqued in Archeo Magazine

An article in Archeo magazine discusses "fantarcheology," criticizing what it perceives as unsubstantiated theories about ancient mysteries, such as the Egyptian pyramids and Atlantis. The article argues that proponents of these theories often present ready-made, unprovable answers, effectively replacing rigorous academic study. It calls for greater self-criticism among researchers of fringe topics to ensure the seriousness and credibility of their work.

Theory on Alexander the Great's Tomb

Historian Andrew Chugg proposes a controversial theory that the remains buried beneath the altar of St. Mark's Basilica in Venice are those of Alexander the Great, not Saint Mark. Chugg suggests that the identity swap occurred during Christian unrest to protect Alexander's remains. He cites ancient sources that indicate Saint Mark's body was burned, and posits that Venetian merchants may have stolen Alexander's mummified body. While some scholars, like Robin Lane Fox, are skeptical, others, like Paul Cartledge, find the theory plausible due to historical gaps. Paul Doherty also supports the idea that Alexander's body could be found, potentially through DNA analysis.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of mystery, the unexplained, and alternative theories, including UFOs, paranormal phenomena, and controversial historical and archaeological claims. The editorial stance appears to be open to investigating these subjects, providing platforms for various researchers and viewpoints, while also presenting critical perspectives, as seen in the review of the Archeo article. The publication aims to inform and engage readers interested in subjects beyond mainstream scientific and historical consensus.