Ethiopia Welcomes Cultural Treasures After a 100-Year Residence in Germany
Exactly 12 historical artefacts were officially given back to Ethiopia following being kept by a German family for over ten decades.
These artefacts, initially acquired in the early twentieth century by Germany's then-envoy to the Ethiopian empire Franz Weiss and his wife his partner, were delivered on midweek to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at the capital's university.
This set featured headpieces, armor and artistic works, each considered as historically important in Ethiopia.
"These treasures continue to stand as a symbol of the enduring and amicable relationship between Germany and Ethiopia," remarked the German diplomat, the ambassador to the East African country.
Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose father was born during the household's diplomatic posting in Ethiopia, handed over the items at a gathering joined by Tourism Minister the tourism official.
He explained that the household's intention to give back the items was to "showcase their splendor with the audience and preserve the culture and past connected to my father's birth."
The objects were either donations or acquisitions, based on the family.
"I want to express gratitude to Professor Weiss's household for actively showing their sincere affection for Ethiopia by meticulously safeguarding these items and vitally ensuring their return to their rightful country," stated the official.
The minister noted that the pieces would shortly be available to the people for investigation and academic study, calling the action a landmark in protecting the nation's historical legacy.
"Actions are ongoing to repatriate historical artifacts that are located in the hands of private persons and entities throughout the world," the minister stated.
During colonialism in the African continent, numerous of historical items were looted.
The request by African countries for the repatriation of taken items has been met with some positive outcomes in lately - though several artefacts are merely on loan.
In 2022, Germany was the first country to give back a portion of the famous historical items to the Nigerian people as part of an effort to address its "complex past."
Related Topics
- Cultural Return Movements in Africa
- The Effect of Imperial Past on Modern African Culture
- International Movements for the Return of Stolen Treasures
