Ethiopia Welcomes Valuable Artefacts Following a Century Stay in German Hands

Around 12 ancient items were officially given back to the Ethiopian nation following being kept by a German family for over a century.

The treasures, originally collected in the early twentieth century by Germany's representative to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his wife Hedwig, were transferred on midweek to the research center at the university in Addis Ababa.

The collection contained royal crowns, armor and canvases, each viewed as culturally valuable in the nation.

"These treasures still serve as a emblem of the long-standing and positive ties between the German nation and Ethiopia," stated Ferdinand von Weyhe, the ambassador to Ethiopia.

Professor a professor, whose father was delivered during the family's diplomatic posting in the nation, delivered the items at a event joined by Tourism Minister the tourism official.

He stated that the household's goal to return the treasures was to "share their appeal with the people and preserve the heritage and past linked to my father's birth."

The artefacts were either considered presents or buys, according to the household.

"We want to thank Professor Weiss's household for practically expressing their deep love for the nation by carefully preserving these artifacts and importantly ensuring their homecoming to their rightful nation," said the minister of tourism.

She added that the artefacts would soon be made accessible to the general audience for study and scholarly work, calling the move a milestone in preserving Ethiopia's national treasures.

"Initiatives will continue to bring back ancient items that are found in the custody of private persons and organizations around the world," she stated.

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

This request by the continent's states for the return of taken artefacts has been met with a degree of success in lately - although a number of objects are just on loan.

Back in 2022, the German government was the first nation to give back some of the well-known Benin artifacts to Nigeria as part of an effort to confront its "dark colonial history."

Connected Subjects

• Historical Restoration Efforts in Africa
• This Effect of Colonial Past on Contemporary African Heritage
• Global Movements for the Return of Stolen Treasures