In 2006 I spent time with a community called Damanhur in the Italian Alps. It was to be the first of many visits. Damanhur, a 1000-strong community, have built the world's largest underground temple (the Eighth Wonder of the World), claim to have taught plants how to sing, and have a 'fully-functioning time machine'. Another case of a deluded cult? I didn't think so, but then I wasn't convinced they could travel in time either.

After getting to know the community and even making a Radio 3 documentary about them, I think I might have figured the Damanhurians out. I believe they have created something important and unique through their community, but it isn't time travel. To find out what it is, you'll have to see the talk.