A 2005 visit to the Visočica fortress ruins in central Bosnia prompted Semir Osmanagić to claim that nearby hills were actually the largest human-made ancient pyramids on Earth. This assertion launched a controversial project involving extensive site excavations and the establishment of a charitable foundation intended to facilitate tourism and further investigation of these features.
Early Career and Business Interests
Born in 1960 in Zenica, Yugoslavia, Osmanagić graduated from the University of Sarajevo. Before his focus turned to archaeology, he managed an import-export business for seven years. Following his emigration to the United States in 1992, he settled in Houston, Texas, where he worked as a marketing assistant for an oil and gas equipment firm. In 1995, he founded Met Company, Inc., a manufacturing firm where he serves as owner and CEO.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →The Bosnian Pyramid Project
In 2006, Osmanagić established the Archaeological Park: Bosnian Pyramid of the Sun Foundation to manage excavations near the town of Visoko. He proposed that five colossal stone structures existed in the region alongside an underground tunnel network. Geologists from the University of Tuzla conducted core sample tests, concluding the hills consisted of naturally occurring conglomerate, clay, and sandstone, matching other local formations. Professional organizations and researchers have described the project as a form of pseudo-archaeology that threatens authentic historical sites.
Academic Background and Other Theories
Osmanagić holds a master's degree in international economics and politics, and he completed a doctoral degree in social sciences at the University of Sarajevo in 2009 under the guidance of Hidajet Repovac. His non-fiction writing extends beyond Bosnian geology into Mayan history and alternative theories. In his publications, he has suggested links between Mayan civilization and extraterrestrial origins, discussed crystal skulls, and hypothesized that Nazi leadership fled to Antarctica at the end of World War II.
Fast facts
- Born: 1960, Zenica, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Education: University of Sarajevo
- Primary Occupation: Entrepreneur
- Foundation founded: 2006
- Doctoral degree: Social sciences (2009)
- Residence: Houston, Texas (emigrated 1992)
- Languages: English, Serbian, Bosnian
Questions readers ask
What is the scientific consensus on the Bosnian pyramids?
Geologists and archaeologists have determined that the hills are common natural formations known as flatirons, showing no evidence of human construction.
What academic credentials does Semir Osmanagić hold?
He earned a master's degree in international economics and politics and a doctorate in social sciences from the University of Sarajevo.
Achievements
- Educated at University of Sarajevo
