The Denver International Airport, often called DIA, has been swirling in a thick soup of conspiracy theories since it opened its gates in ‘95. The airport’s mystique is wrapped around secret tunnels, hidden symbols, and more wild tales. Buckle up as we dig into DIA’s curious world.

The biggest buzz is about those secret tunnels and bunkers. The story goes that beneath the runway lies a labyrinth meant for billionaires and global big shots in case of an end-of-the-world scenario. Some even throw in lizard people and aliens into the mix! Apparently, some contractors whispered about mysterious entrances they spotted during construction. But, the reality is a bit of a letdown. DIA does have an extensive network of underground tunnels, but they’re just for practical stuff like moving luggage around. Sure, the baggage system had its hiccups, but that’s hardly proof of alien hideouts.

Next, there’s the chatter about the Freemasons and other secret societies. A dedication plaque featuring the Freemason symbol, along with a nod to the New World Airport Commission, has fueled rumors about hidden control or influence. However, in real life, the Freemasons just threw a ceremonial touch on the airport’s opening. The buried time capsule underneath the plaque has some mundane stuff like coins and sneakers from the former Denver Mayor, not exactly spine-chilling artifacts.

Then there’s the artwork. DIA’s public art, especially murals by Leo Tanguma, get conspiracy theorists really talking. They see Illuminati symbols and apocalyptic hints in the scenes of chaos and destruction. Yet, Tanguma’s vision was more about narrating a hopeful cycle of peace overcoming war, not doom and gloom predictions.

People also get riled up over the runways, claiming they’re shaped like a swastika, hinting at a secret Nazi plot. But this supposed wartime icon is just an efficient layout for planes to take off and land, backed by the Federal Aviation Authority. Nothing sinister there.

An oldie but goodie theory talks about “coffin tunnels” supposedly used to transport dead government dissidents secretly. This came about because large vertical carousels used for oversized items got nicknamed “coffins” by airport staff over their radios. But it all boils down to a quirky misinterpretation.

In a clever twist, DIA has rolled with the punches and embraced its conspiracy-laden reputation. They’ve even launched cheeky marketing campaigns flaunting hashtags like #DENFILES and featuring fun imagery of lizard people and aliens. Instead of being haunted by these myths, they’ve turned them into a quirky charm that draws in curious travelers.

So, while DIA’s stories might be wild and wacky, most theories don’t hold much water. The airport’s underground is about luggage, the Freemasons’ role was just ceremonial, and the art is meant to inspire peace. Yet, DIA’s blend of unique architecture and intriguing elements makes it a captivating spot, keeping both travelers and theorists endlessly fascinated.