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Around 12 ancient objects have been officially given back to the Ethiopian nation after remaining by a German family for over ten decades.

The artefacts, initially collected in the 1920s by Germany's diplomat to Ethiopia Franz Weiss and his spouse Hedwig, were delivered on this past Wednesday to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at the capital's university.

The assortment contained headpieces, armor and paintings, all regarded as historically significant in Ethiopia.

"The treasures continue to stand as a symbol of the lasting and friendly ties between the German nation and the Ethiopian people," stated Germany's envoy, the envoy to Ethiopia.

Professor a professor, whose father was born during the household's diplomatic posting in the nation, delivered the objects at a ceremony witnessed by the Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa.

He explained that the household's goal to return the treasures was to "share their splendor with the people and safeguard the culture and history linked to my parent's birth."

These objects were either gifts or purchases, as stated by the household.

"I would like to express gratitude to Professor Weiss's household for concretely showing their profound love for the nation by meticulously maintaining these items and vitally securing their homecoming to their proper nation," said the minister of tourism.

She noted that the artefacts would shortly be made accessible to the public for research and educational purposes, calling the decision a milestone in preserving Ethiopia's historical legacy.

"Actions are ongoing to repatriate old items that are found in the possession of individuals and organizations throughout the planet," the minister affirmed.

In the era of colonial rule in Africa, thousands of historical artefacts were taken.

This request by African countries for the restoration of stolen items has been met with certain positive outcomes in lately - even if a number of artefacts are just on loan.

In 2022, Germany was the first country to give back some of the famous Benin Bronzes to the Nigerian people as part of an effort to deal with its "troubled colonial history."

Connected Topics

• Cultural Return Efforts in Africa
• This Effect of Colonial History on Contemporary Ethiopian Heritage
• Global Movements for the Restitution of Looted Artefacts