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A total of Twelve historical artefacts have been ceremoniously given back to Ethiopia after being kept by a family in Germany for over a century.

The items, originally gathered in the 1920's by Germany's diplomat to Ethiopia a German envoy and his spouse his partner, were transferred on Wednesday to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at Addis Ababa University.

This set featured royal crowns, armor and paintings, all viewed as culturally valuable in the nation.

"The items still serve as a symbol of the long-standing and amicable connection between the German nation and the Ethiopian people," stated Germany's envoy, the envoy to Ethiopia.

Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose parent was born during the household's service in the nation, presented the items at a gathering witnessed by Tourism Minister the tourism official.

He explained that the household's intention to give back the treasures was to "showcase their beauty with the people and maintain the culture and history tied to my father's origin."

The items were either gifts or purchases, based on the family.

"We want to express gratitude to Professor Weiss's family for actively expressing their sincere affection for the nation by diligently safeguarding these artifacts and importantly securing their homecoming to their proper country," stated the official.

She added that the artefacts would soon be available to the general audience for investigation and scholarly work, terming the move a milestone in protecting Ethiopia's historical legacy.

"Initiatives persist to bring back ancient items that are held in the custody of collectors and institutions all over the globe," the minister affirmed.

In the era of colonialism in the African continent, thousands of historical objects were taken.

This demand by the continent's states for the return of looted artefacts has been met with a degree of progress in lately - although several items are merely on short-term display.

Back in the year 2022, Germany was the pioneering state to return a selection of the well-known Benin Bronzes to the Nigerian people in an attempt to confront its "dark colonial history."

Connected Themes

• Cultural Restoration Initiatives in Africa
• The Effect of Imperial History on Modern African Heritage
• Global Movements for the Return of Stolen Artefacts