Ethiopia Receives Cultural Artefacts After a Long Stay in Germany
Around Twelve historical artefacts have been ceremoniously given back to the Ethiopian nation following remaining by a family in Germany for in excess of 100 years.
These treasures, initially collected in the 1920's by the German diplomat to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his spouse his partner, were transferred on midweek to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at the capital's university.
The set contained crowns, armor and paintings, all considered as historically important in Ethiopia.
"The items continue to represent a mark of the lasting and amicable relationship between Germany and Ethiopia," remarked Germany's envoy, the ambassador to the East African country.
Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose father was delivered during the family's diplomatic posting in the nation, handed over the objects at a ceremony joined by the Minister of Tourism the tourism official.
He explained that the family's aim to give back the treasures was to "showcase their beauty with the people and safeguard the heritage and past tied to my father's origin."
The items were either considered presents or acquisitions, based on the household.
"I want to thank the Weiss household for actively expressing their deep appreciation for the nation by meticulously safeguarding these items and importantly ensuring their return to their proper homeland," stated the minister of tourism.
The minister continued that the pieces would in the near future be available to the general audience for investigation and scholarly work, describing the action a significant step in preserving Ethiopia's cultural heritage.
"Initiatives are ongoing to return old items that are found in the hands of collectors and organizations around the world," the minister stated.
During colonial rule in the African continent, numerous of historical objects were looted.
This request by African countries for the repatriation of looted items has been met with certain positive outcomes in recent years - although some artefacts are merely on short-term display.
Back in 2022, the German government was the first state to give back some of the well-known Benin artifacts to the West African nation in an attempt to deal with its "complex legacy."
Connected Themes
- Cultural Restoration Efforts in the Continent
- This Effect of Colonial Past on Contemporary Ethiopian Culture
- Global Campaigns for the Return of Looted Treasures