Ethiopia Takes Back Cultural Treasures Following a Century Stay in Germany

Exactly 12 ancient items were ceremoniously given back to Ethiopia after staying by a family in Germany for more than ten decades.

These artefacts, initially acquired in the early twentieth century by the German diplomat to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his wife Hedwig, were handed over on this past Wednesday to the research center at Addis Ababa University.

This assortment contained royal crowns, protective shields and canvases, all regarded as culturally important in the nation.

"These items continue to serve as a symbol of the lasting and positive ties between the German nation and the Ethiopian people," remarked Germany's envoy, the ambassador to the East African country.

Dr. a professor, whose father was born during the household's assignment in the nation, delivered the artefacts at a event witnessed by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.

He said that the family's goal to return the treasures was to "display their appeal with the audience and safeguard the culture and history linked to my parent's birth."

These artefacts were either gifts or acquisitions, as stated by the family.

"We want to thank the Weiss household for actively expressing their deep appreciation for the nation by carefully preserving these artifacts and vitally ensuring their repatriation to their legitimate country," said the tourism minister.

She added that the items would in the near future be available to the people for research and academic study, terming the move a milestone in safeguarding Ethiopia's cultural heritage.

"Efforts will continue to return old artifacts that are held in the possession of individuals and entities around the globe," the minister said.

During colonialism in the African continent, thousands of traditional artefacts were looted.

This demand by African countries for the restoration of taken objects has been responded to by some progress in lately - though some artefacts are just on short-term display.

In 2022, the German government was the pioneering state to return a portion of the famous Benin Bronzes to the Nigerian people in an attempt to confront its "dark past."

Related Subjects

• Cultural Repatriation Movements in Africa
• This Significance of Colonial Past on Contemporary Ethiopian Heritage
• International Campaigns for the Return of Looted Treasures