The East African nation Welcomes Historic Treasures Following a Century Stay in Germany
Around Twelve ancient artefacts were officially returned to the Ethiopian nation following being kept by a German family for over a century.
The items, initially acquired in the early twentieth century by Germany's diplomat to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his wife his partner, were handed over on midweek to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at Addis Ababa University.
This assortment contained royal crowns, protective shields and artistic works, all viewed as historically significant in the nation.
"The treasures still represent a symbol of the long-standing and amicable relationship between Germany and the Ethiopian people," remarked Ferdinand von Weyhe, Germany's ambassador to the East African country.
Professor Ramon Wyss, whose father was delivered during the family's diplomatic posting in the nation, handed over the items at a gathering attended by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.
He explained that the family's aim to return the treasures was to "share their splendor with the public and preserve the heritage and past linked to my parent's birth."
The objects were either considered gifts or acquisitions, based on the family.
"I would like to express gratitude to Professor Weiss's family for practically demonstrating their profound love for the nation by meticulously preserving these treasures and vitally guaranteeing their return to their proper nation," stated the tourism minister.
The minister noted that the items would in the near future be opened to the people for research and academic study, terming the action a landmark in protecting Ethiopia's national treasures.
"Actions persist to bring back historical artifacts that are held in the custody of individuals and organizations throughout the world," the minister said.
During colonial rule in Africa, thousands of traditional items were taken.
This request by the continent's states for the repatriation of looted artefacts has been met with a degree of progress in the past few years - even if several items are merely on temporary return.
In the year 2022, Germany was the pioneering country to give back some of the well-known historical items to Nigeria in an attempt to address its "troubled past."
Similar Subjects
- Cultural Return Initiatives in the Continent
- This Impact of Imperial Past on Modern Ethiopian Heritage
- International Movements for the Restitution of Stolen Items
