Welcome to the final episode of Digging Up Ancient Aliens for 2024! Join Fredrik as he looks back on a fascinating year exploring alternative history and ancient alien theories. This episode recaps key highlights, noteworthy discoveries, and the broader conversations sparked by pseudo-archaeology.

What We Covered in 2024:

• Ancient Pyramids: We dove into the mysteries surrounding the Djoser’s Step Pyramid, the Giza Plateau, and Gunung Padang. Learn how archaeological evidence challenges ancient alien claims, including critiques of flawed research papers.
• German Golden Hats: Fredrik explored these fascinating Bronze Age artifacts, possibly used as calendars, and reflected on seeing one in Berlin.
• The Copper Scroll: Is it a genuine treasure map or a symbolic inventory? We unpack the mysteries behind this Dead Sea artifact.
• The Shroud of Turin: Investigations revealed it to be a medieval forgery. Discover how historical skepticism and modern reactions offer insights into public perceptions of archaeology.
• Mayan Civilization: Collaborations with experts clarified Mayan history and debunked myths, including the 2012 apocalypse story.
• History and Politics: A case study on Poland’s Christ of Europe highlights how states and museums shape historical narratives to suit modern agendas.
• Kensington Runestone: A detailed analysis revealed how this hoax offers more about modern history than medieval Scandinavians.

Beyond the Podcast:

• Conferences & Events: Fredrik attended the Theoretical Archaeology Group’s annual meeting, discussing ethical challenges in how human remains are presented online.
• TAG Ethics Bowl: Stepping in at the last minute, Fredrik's team won the first-ever TAG Ethics Bowl, debating real-world ethical scenarios in archaeology.
• #RealArchaeology: Contributed to this online event, creating content on topics like lake monsters and Vikings.

Thank You, Listeners & Supporters!

Your support makes this podcast possible. Thank you for helping us grow and improve throughout the year. If you have feedback, questions, or ideas for 2025, get in touch via diggingupancientaliens.com.

Don’t Miss Out

• Transcripts & Links: Find detailed transcripts, referenced materials, and conference guidelines on the episode page.
• Bonus Content: Learn how to support the podcast and access exclusive extras.

Here’s to a great 2025—let’s keep digging into the mysteries of the past! If you enjoyed this episode, leave a review and share it with friends. 🌟

Credits:

Written, hosted, and mastered by: Fredrik Trusohamn

Producer: Ashleigh Airey

Part of the Archaeological Podcast Network

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This episode delves into the Viking Age burial practices and examines claims made by the Ancient Astronaut crowd that suggest these customs are evidence of alien interference. Together with Professor Howard Williams, known as Archeodeath online, we explore the complexities of Norse burials and the significance of ship burials, which were often associated with high-status individuals. The discussion reveals that Viking funerals were not merely about sending the dead off into the stars, but rather about creating memorable communal experiences that reflected social status and identity. We also challenge the misconceptions perpetuated by popular media, highlighting the importance of grounding our understanding in archaeological evidence rather than sensational theories. Tune in as we unpack the rich tapestry of Viking mortuary practices and the meanings behind their rituals, offering a clearer perspective on the past.

Find Professor Williams at these places:

Blog: https://howardwilliamsblog.wordpress.com/about/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@archaeodeath

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@archaeodeath

Order William's latest book here: https://www.sidestone.com/books/cremation-in-the-early-middle-ages

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This podcast delves into the peculiar claims made by the show Ancient Aliens regarding the Viking Age. Swedish archaeologist Fredrik and Norwegian archaeologist Steffen Bakk critically examine the episode that suggests Vikings may have had extraterrestrial influences, questioning the validity of such assertions. They highlight the absurdity of claims like Odin’s ravens being spy drones and the possibility of aliens crafting Viking weapons. The discussion tackles the issue of how ancient cultures are often infantilized and misrepresented, reducing complex societies to simplistic and fantastical narratives. Throughout their conversation, they emphasize the importance of grounded archaeological evidence over sensationalist interpretations, underscoring that ancient peoples could achieve remarkable achievements without invoking aliens.

Find more from Steffen here:

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@steffenbakksigils

Link Tree with 3D models and more: https://linktr.ee/Steffenbakksigils

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This time, we will look back at two sites we covered in the past, but with some new information and approaches. Today's excursion is based on the Ancient Aliens episode "Mysterious Structures" from season eight. This is basically a clip show from past episodes. A bit of the issue with Ancient Aliens is that they tend to reuse material over time. But to add some new things, I'll discuss Ancient Aliens, Graham Hancock's latest season of Ancient Apocalypse, and a TikToker, all trying to claim Rapa Nui or Easter Island as either Aliens, Atlantis, or both.

In the second half, we will look at the Coral Castle and if this modern megalithic structure could be an alien intervention. A hint: it's not.

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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/@appliedhistorian

https://www.elementaltours.com/

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Histourian

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 Monsters
• 01:07 - The Sturgeon Monster of Sweden
• 01:56 - The Legend of the Runestone
• 02:21 - Historical Context of the Monster
• 05:40 - The Role of the Runestone in Local Identity
• 11:43 - Modern Implications and Taxpayer Costs
• 20:33 - The Pseudoscience of the Sea Monster
• 21:00 - Conclusion and Reflections

This is part of the Real Archaeology event. For a full list of participants, see https://real-archaeology.com/

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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 Real-Archaeology.com to learn more about the event, which will take place between October 25 and October 27, 2024!

• 00:00 - Introduction to the Podcast
• 00:43 - Exploring the Crystal Skulls
• 02:45 - The Myth of the Crystal Skulls
• 06:15 - The Mitchell-Hedges Skull Story
• 14:05 - Debunking the Myths: Scientific Analysis
• 18:26 - Plastic Shamanism and Cultural Misappropriation
• 20:53 - Commercialization of Crystal Myths
• 26:11 - Conclusion: Fact vs Fiction
• 30:02 - Outro and Acknowledgments

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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-xIlYImiNN0g

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/archaeosoup

More of Michelle Franklin can be found here:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@authormichellefranklin

Michelle Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newshortstories

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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? 00:01:51
• Let the runes speak 00:07:39
• New or old Swedish? 00:21:31
• The hooked X does not mark the spot 00:26:37
• Numbers and runes 00:32:51
• Kensington runestone and archaeology 00:45:22
• KRS and geology 00:49:49
• River kings without rivers 00:54:24
• Here come the templars 00:56:24
• Why and who? 01:04:15

Find the transcript and sources for this episode here: https://diggingupancientaliens.com/episode-70-the-kensington-runestone

Histourian

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The 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 flikr

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Histourian

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

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The intro music is Lily of the woods by Sandra Marteleur, and the outro is named “Folie hatt” by Trallskruv. Visit Trallskruvs website here