Super-Secret Bunkers Under Denver Airport? Eh, Maybe

A writer explores conspiracy theories, doesn't think this one is so far-fetched
By Newser Editors,  Newser Staff
Posted Nov 1, 2017 11:20 AM CDT
Denver's Airport Remains Magnet for Crazy Tales
The 32-foot-tall blue mustang sculpture at Denver International Airport.   (AP Photo/Ed Andrieski, File)

Denver International Airport is, among other things, a magnet for wackadoo conspiracy theories. The 32-foot statue of a blue mustang with glowing orange eyes doesn't help, nor does the fact that a piece of the horse fell off and killed the sculptor while it was a work in progress, writes Colin St. John at Thrillist. As a Denver native, St. John takes a particular interest in all the tales, including the creepy-looking gargoyles overlooking baggage claim. "To some of the conspiracy theorists, this is a harbinger of something evil or nefarious," says an airport spokesman. "But it's not. It's a fun piece of art." St. John even tracks down the artist, who explains that the airport design reminded him of an old cathedral, which reminded him of gargoyles, and which he placed on their perches as symbols of protection, not evil.

St. John also discusses the airport murals with apocalyptic vibes, the role of the Freemasons in the 1994 dedication ceremony, a supposedly swastika-shaped runway system, and more. He ends, though, by looking at perhaps the biggest conspiracy theory of all, the idea of some kind of network of hidden tunnels or bunkers. He speaks to the man in charge of the architectural design, Curtis Fentress, who says in a phone interview, "Well, I really can't speak to it. I'm sworn to secrecy." Is he kidding? St. John can't tell. But if he's serious, St. John doesn't think it's too far-fetched. "Is it possible there are protected shelters underneath the Colorado plains and is it also possible that those who know about them want to keep them classified so, you know, they don't become a target?" he writes. "I'd say it's even probable." Cue the creepy music. Click for the full story. (More Longform stories.)

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