Ethiopia Takes Back Valuable Items Following a 100-Year Residence in Germany

A total of 12 ancient objects have been formally restored to the Ethiopian nation after staying by a German family for over 100 years.

These treasures, first collected in the early twentieth century by Germany's diplomat to the Ethiopian empire Franz Weiss and his wife Hedwig, were delivered on this past Wednesday to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at Addis Ababa University.

The assortment included royal crowns, armor and canvases, all considered as culturally valuable in Ethiopia.

"These items continue to represent a emblem of the long-standing and friendly connection between Germany and the Ethiopian people," stated the German diplomat, the representative to Ethiopia.

Professor a professor, whose father was delivered during the household's diplomatic posting in Ethiopia, presented the artefacts at a ceremony attended by the Minister of Tourism the tourism official.

He explained that the family's goal to give back the artefacts was to "share their appeal with the people and safeguard the culture and history connected to my father's beginning."

The items were either considered gifts or buys, as stated by the relatives.

"I want to express gratitude to the Weiss family for practically expressing their deep appreciation for Ethiopia by meticulously preserving these items and importantly guaranteeing their homecoming to their proper country," said the minister of tourism.

She added that the items would shortly be made accessible to the general audience for study and educational purposes, describing the move a milestone in protecting Ethiopia's cultural heritage.

"Initiatives will continue to return ancient artifacts that are found in the possession of individuals and organizations around the globe," she said.

In the era of imperial control in Africa, many of historical artefacts were taken.

This demand by nations in Africa for the restoration of stolen items has been responded to by some success in recent years - although several items are merely on temporary return.

In the year 2022, the German government was the pioneering country to give back a selection of the well-known Benin artifacts to Nigeria in a bid to confront its "dark past."

Connected Themes

• Historical Return Movements in Africa
• The Significance of Imperial Past on Contemporary African Heritage
• Global Movements for the Restitution of Looted Items