12.01.2026 11:34
Swiss author Erich von Daniken has passed away at the age of 90. The author's family announced the date of his death. Von Daniken, who wrote books that sold over 70 million copies, made significant contributions to the popularization of the concept of 'ancient aliens.'
Swiss author Erich von Daniken passed away at the age of 90. Erich von Daniken's family announced that the author died on January 10, 2026, in a hospital in Interlaken, Switzerland. Von Daniken, whose books have been translated into more than 30 languages and have sold over 70 million copies, played a significant role in popularizing the concept of 'ancient aliens' in popular culture. The cause of death for Erich von Daniken, who passed away at the age of 90, was reported as 'natural causes related to old age.'
HE WAS AT THE TOP OF THE BESTSELLER LIST FOR YEARS
It was stated that von Daniken passed away in a hospital in Switzerland on January 10, 2026. While no detailed explanation was provided regarding the cause of death, the author's passing caused great sadness, especially among those interested in ancient civilizations, mysterious structures, and theories of extraterrestrial life. Numerous condolence messages were shared on his official website.
Known for his works that reached millions of readers worldwide, von Daniken garnered both great interest and intense criticism over the years with his extraordinary claims. Nevertheless, his books remained on the bestseller lists for many years.
WHO IS ERICH VON DÄNIKEN?
Born in 1935 in Zofingen, Switzerland, Erich von Däniken became one of the most recognized figures advocating the "ancient astronaut theory," which suggests that ancient civilizations may have made contact with extraterrestrial beings. His book "Chariots of the Gods?" published in 1968, created a significant global impact. The work has been translated into over 40 languages and has sold millions of copies, becoming a cult classic.
Throughout his career, von Daniken authored 49 books, and his works inspired numerous documentaries and television programs. The famous author left behind a legacy that is both awe-inspiring and still a subject of ongoing debate.