Runestones and monsters: The Intersection of Archaeology and Myth

The episode features a lively and critical dialogue between Frederik and Dr. Charlotte Coull, a public historian specializing in the cultural significance of stone. They explore the problematic narratives surrounding megaliths and ancient sites as portrayed in the popular television show Ancient Aliens. A key focus of their discussion is the site of Avebury, where Dr. Call emphasizes the emotional and historical connections people have with stone structures, urging listeners to recognize the deep cultural roots these sites have in human history rather than relegating them to mere alien constructs. The conversation also touches upon the stone spheres of Costa Rica and their misrepresentation in the media, arguing that erosion and natural processes can explain their shape, rather than attributing them to alien technology.Fredrik and Dr. Coull's engaging exchange serves as a reminder of the importance of critical thinking in the face of alternative histories that often prioritize spectacle over fact. They encourage listeners to appreciate the complexities of ancient craftsmanship and the human stories woven into the fabric of these historical sites, advocating for a respectful and informed exploration of our past. The episode is a compelling call to action for those interested in archaeology and history to challenge sensationalist narratives and embrace a more nuanced understanding of the ancient world.Charlotte Coulls projects:https://www.youtube.com/@appliedhistorianhttps://www.elementaltours.com/Contact:Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.comEmail: [email protected]: facebook.com/Digging-up-Ancient-Aliens-108173641647111/Twitter: twitter.com/DUAncientAliensInstagram: instagram.com/digging_up_ancient_aliens/TikTok: tiktok.com/@digging_up_ancient_alienStore: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/merchBecome a supporter! Sign up for Patreon or membership here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/support Support the show!We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses. Join Patreon hereMember Portal MusicThe intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs <a...

Monsters have long captivated human imagination, and this episode delves into the fascinating legend of a lake monster in Sweden, specifically the creature said to inhabit Storsjön, or the Big Lake. This tale intertwines with regional identity and the historical significance of a runestone associated with the beast, which adds a unique layer to the narrative of monsters and archaeological artifacts. The legend, first documented by a Danish priest in the 17th century, highlights how folklore can shape local culture and community ties. However, the episode also sheds light on the darker implications of this myth, including the misuse of taxpayer funds in efforts to prove the monster's existence. Ultimately, it raises important questions about pseudoscience, historical narratives, and the balance between cultural heritage and fiscal responsibility.Chapters:00:01 - Introduction to Monsters01:07 - The Sturgeon Monster of Sweden01:56 - The Legend of the Runestone02:21 - Historical Context of the Monster05:40 - The Role of the Runestone in Local Identity11:43 - Modern Implications and Taxpayer Costs20:33 - The Pseudoscience of the Sea Monster21:00 - Conclusion and ReflectionsThis is part of the Real Archaeology event. For a full list of participants, see https://real-archaeology.com/Contact:Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.comEmail: [email protected]: facebook.com/Digging-up-Ancient-Aliens-108173641647111/Twitter: twitter.com/DUAncientAliensInstagram: instagram.com/digging_up_ancient_aliens/TikTok: tiktok.com/@digging_up_ancient_alienStore: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/merchBecome a supporter! Sign up for Patreon or membership here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/support Support the show!We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses. Join Patreon hereMember Portal ArchPodNetAPN Website: https://www.archpodnet.comAPN on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/archpodnetAPN on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/archpodnetAPN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/archpodnetTee Public...

The legend of crystal skulls captivates the imagination, interweaving tales of ancient wisdom, extraterrestrial artifacts, and mystical powers. However, a closer examination reveals that many of these claims are steeped in modern invention rather than historical fact. Frederick meticulously investigates the origins of the most notorious crystal skulls, notably the Mitchell-Hedges Skull, which has been venerated by some as an ancient artifact with supernatural qualities. Contrary to popular belief, extensive research indicates that these skulls were likely manufactured in Germany, utilizing modern tools and techniques that were not available to ancient civilizations.Throughout this captivating exploration, Frederick addresses the pseudoscientific narratives that have proliferated around these skulls, exposing the lack of credible evidence supporting their supposed ancient origins. The episode further critiques the appropriation of Indigenous cultures in the promotion of these myths, spotlighting how New Age movements often fabricate connections to Native American spiritual practices to enhance the allure of these artifacts. The discussion serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of misrepresenting cultural histories and the commercialization of spiritual beliefs, reminding listeners that the enchanting stories surrounding crystal skulls are often just that—stories—rather than grounded realities. Ultimately, this episode calls for a more nuanced understanding of these artifacts, advocating for recognition of their artistic value while dispelling the myths that have overshadowed their true origins.A fully sourced transcript can be found at the episode page at: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/episode-72-the-crystal-skulls Remember to visit&nbsp;Real-Archaeology.com&nbsp;to learn more about the event, which will take place between October 25 and October 27, 2024!Chapters:00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast00:43 - Exploring the Crystal Skulls02:45 - The Myth of the Crystal Skulls06:15 - The Mitchell-Hedges Skull Story14:05 - Debunking the Myths: Scientific Analysis18:26 - Plastic Shamanism and Cultural Misappropriation20:53 - Commercialization of Crystal Myths26:11 - Conclusion: Fact vs Fiction30:02 - Outro and AcknowledgmentsContact:Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.comEmail: [email protected]: facebook.com/Digging-up-Ancient-Aliens-108173641647111/Twitter: twitter.com/DUAncientAliensInstagram: instagram.com/digging_up_ancient_aliens/TikTok: tiktok.com/@digging_up_ancient_alienStore: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/merchBecome a supporter! Sign up for Patreon or membership here: <a href="https://diggingupancientaliens.com/support" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Is magic real? Ancient Alien theorists claim that it is, but not really. They claim that descriptions of magic are just misunderstood alien technology. Together with Archaeosoup and Michelle Franklin, we are going to investigate these theories. We'll cover modern magicians, the famous Merlin, and whether Moses from the Bible had access to alien technology.You can find more from Archaeosoup here:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiJCpRC9BvG-xIlYImiNN0gLinktree: https://linktr.ee/archaeosoupMore of Michelle Franklin can be found here:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@authormichellefranklinMichelle Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newshortstoriesContact:Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.comEmail: [email protected]: facebook.com/Digging-up-Ancient-Aliens-108173641647111/Twitter: twitter.com/DUAncientAliensInstagram: instagram.com/digging_up_ancient_aliens/TikTok: tiktok.com/@digging_up_ancient_alienStore: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/merchBecome a supporter! Sign up for Patreon or membership here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/support MusicThe intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here Support the show!We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses. Join Patreon hereMember Portal ArchPodNetAPN Website: https://www.archpodnet.comAPN on Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/archpodnet" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

This time, we will look at the infamous Kensington Runestone found in the USA and the claims made by Scott Wolter from America Unearthed. Is the stone evidence of templars and Scandinavians in the US? Or is it a creation in modern times? In Digging up Ancient Aliens, our host Fredrik uses his background in archaeology to discover what is genuine, fake, and somewhere in between in popular media, such as Ancient Aliens, Ancient Apocalypse, and many other places.In this episode:What is the Kensington Runestone? 00:01:51Let the runes speak 00:07:39New or old Swedish? 00:21:31The hooked X does not mark the spot 00:26:37Numbers and runes 00:32:51Kensington runestone and archaeology 00:45:22KRS and geology 00:49:49River kings without rivers 00:54:24Here come the templars 00:56:24Why and who? 01:04:15Find the transcript and sources for this episode here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/episode-70-the-kensington-runestoneHistourian Support the show!We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses. Join Patreon hereMember Portal Contact:Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.comEmail: [email protected]: facebook.com/Digging-up-Ancient-Aliens-108173641647111/Twitter: twitter.com/DUAncientAliensInstagram: instagram.com/digging_up_ancient_aliens/TikTok: tiktok.com/@digging_up_ancient_alienStore: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/merchBecome a supporter! Sign up for Patreon or membership here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/support MusicThe intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here Image in cover art: Lorie Shaull from <a...

We are going on an excursion to a place of power in the Viking world. Let's explore where the Jarl of Birka most likely had their residence. We will also talk about the work of one of Sweden's first female archaeologists and slavery within the Viking world. Histourian Contact:Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.comEmail: [email protected]: facebook.com/Digging-up-Ancient-Aliens-108173641647111/Twitter: twitter.com/DUAncientAliensInstagram: instagram.com/digging_up_ancient_aliens/TikTok: tiktok.com/@digging_up_ancient_alienStore: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/merchBecome a supporter! Sign up for Patreon or membership here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/support Support the show!We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses. Join Patreon hereMember Portal ArchPodNetAPN Website: https://www.archpodnet.comAPN on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/archpodnetAPN on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/archpodnetAPN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/archpodnetTee Public Store MusicThe intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here

In this extraordinary episode I'm going head to head with Mark, or as he is better known, Archaeosoup. Who is the most knowledgeable regarding pseudo-archaeology? Only one can emerge victorious from this battle!The quiz was created and hosted initially by the very gracious Michelle Franklin. Links to both Michelle and Mark are found here below.Remember, we do not do dinosaurs!Michelle Franklin:https://youtube.com/@authormichellefranklin?si=2ofmCIfDnukLYTUhArchaeosoup:https://youtube.com/@archaeos0up?si=8hwKopcaDgvwBSOyHistourian Contact:Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.comEmail: [email protected]: facebook.com/Digging-up-Ancient-Aliens-108173641647111/Twitter: twitter.com/DUAncientAliensInstagram: instagram.com/digging_up_ancient_aliens/TikTok: tiktok.com/@digging_up_ancient_alienStore: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/merchBecome a supporter! Sign up for Patreon or membership here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/support Support the show!We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses. Join Patreon hereMember Portal MusicThe intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here ArchPodNetAPN Website: https://www.archpodnet.comAPN on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/archpodnetAPN on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/archpodnetAPN on Instagram:...

This is the finale of our summer special. The second part of Lucian of Samosata's novel “A True Story.” While the first part is filled with space travels and battles on distant planets, this part will deal with other topics. What was Homer's true nationality, why Pythagoras didn’t like his victory meal, and if Herodotus were sent to the Greek version of hell for his accounts?Lucian of Samosata, a second-century CE author, penned what some consider the first science fiction novel in history, "A True Story." Lucian vividly describes space travel, intergalactic battles, alien beings, and even alien abductions in this short story. However, rather than attempting to write a sci-fi epic, Lucian's work is a satirical critique of contemporary travel books and historical accounts. In this episode, we'll continue to look at Lucian's imaginative narrative and see how it gives us a unique window into the ancient world.Remember to check out our sponsor, Histourian! Histourian Contact:Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.comEmail: [email protected]: facebook.com/Digging-up-Ancient-Aliens-108173641647111/Twitter: twitter.com/DUAncientAliensInstagram: instagram.com/digging_up_ancient_aliens/TikTok: tiktok.com/@digging_up_ancient_alienStore: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/merchBecome a supporter! Sign up for Patreon or membership here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/support Support the show!We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses. Join Patreon hereMember Portal ArchPodNetAPN Website: https://www.archpodnet.comAPN on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/archpodnetAPN on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/archpodnetAPN on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/archpodnetTee Public Store MusicThe intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named <a...

In this summer special episode, while traveling and soaking up the sun, I found myself contemplating a different kind of travel—space travel. Inspired by the frequent claims made in "Ancient Aliens" that ancient myths and stories actually describe UFOs and space rockets using the vocabulary of the time, I wanted to explore this concept further. However, I often find these interpretations to be misleading or misrepresentative of the original texts. This sparked an intriguing thought: How would an ancient person genuinely describe space travel?Enter Lucian of Samosata, a second-century CE author who penned what some consider the first science fiction novel in history, "A True Story." In this short story, Lucian vividly describes space travel, intergalactic battles, alien beings, and even alien abductions. However, rather than attempting to write a sci-fi epic, Lucian's work is actually a satirical critique of contemporary travel books and historical accounts. In this episode, we'll delve into Lucian's imaginative narrative and see how it gives us a unique window into ancient perceptions of space travel.Check out our sponsor: Histourian Support the show!We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses. Join Patreon hereMember Portal Contact:Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.comEmail: [email protected]: facebook.com/Digging-up-Ancient-Aliens-108173641647111/Twitter: twitter.com/DUAncientAliensInstagram: instagram.com/digging_up_ancient_aliens/TikTok: tiktok.com/@digging_up_ancient_alienStore: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/merchBecome a supporter! Sign up for Patreon or membership here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/support MusicThe intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website hereArchPodNetAPN Website: <a href="https://www.archpodnet.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

This episode will be a bit different than normal. First, it was recorded in Rome. Secondly, there will not be too many aliens. Don't worry, it will be a fun one, we will finally find Europe's only ancient pyramid. They were not in Bosnia or Greece but in Italy all along. Then we'll bust some Colosseum myths and talk a little about Romes's obsession with moving obelisks.In this episode:Europe's only ancient pyramid 2:08Colosseum 8:10Nero didn't start the fire; it was always burning, as the world kept turning 10:48For those about to rock 16:50You sank my battleship 22:32Gladiatrix 25:32Obelisks in Rome 29:00Download the histourian app: Histourian Contact:Website: https://diggingupancientaliens.comEmail: [email protected]: facebook.com/Digging-up-Ancient-Aliens-108173641647111/Twitter: twitter.com/DUAncientAliensInstagram: instagram.com/digging_up_ancient_aliens/TikTok: tiktok.com/@digging_up_ancient_alienStore: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/merchBecome a supporter! Sign up for Patreon or membership here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/support Support the show!We have a members portal and a Patreon; both have the same levels and bonuses. Join Patreon hereMember Portal MusicThe intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here ArchPodNetAPN Website: https://www.archpodnet.comAPN on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/archpodnetAPN on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/archpodnetAPN on Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/archpodnet" rel="noopener noreferrer"...