The East African nation Welcomes Historic Treasures Following a Century Stay in German Hands
A total of Twelve historical items have been ceremoniously returned to Ethiopia after remaining by a family in Germany for in excess of 100 years.
These treasures, first collected in the 1920s by Germany's then-envoy to the Ethiopian empire Franz Weiss and his spouse Hedwig, were transferred on this past Wednesday to the research center at the university in Addis Ababa.
This assortment included royal crowns, armor and paintings, each viewed as historically important in the country.
"The artefacts still serve as a mark of the long-standing and friendly connection between the German nation and the Ethiopian people," remarked Germany's envoy, Germany's envoy to Ethiopia.
Professor Ramon Wyss, whose parent was born during the family's diplomatic posting in Ethiopia, handed over the objects at a gathering witnessed by Tourism Minister the tourism official.
He explained that the household's aim to give back the artefacts was to "display their beauty with the audience and maintain the culture and past tied to my father's birth."
The objects were either gifts or purchases, as stated by the family.
"We want to thank Professor Weiss's family for actively showing their deep appreciation for Ethiopia by diligently maintaining these items and vitally guaranteeing their return to their legitimate country," said the tourism minister.
She continued that the pieces would shortly be opened to the people for investigation and academic study, describing the decision a milestone in protecting Ethiopia's national treasures.
"Initiatives will continue to repatriate old objects that are held in the custody of private persons and institutions all over the planet," she affirmed.
During colonial rule in Africa, many of historical items were taken.
The request by nations in Africa for the restoration of looted artefacts has been responded to by some success in recent years - although some artefacts are merely on temporary return.
In the year 2022, Germany was the pioneering country to give back a portion of the well-known historical items to Nigeria in an attempt to deal with its "complex legacy."
Connected Subjects
- Historical Return Initiatives in Africa
- This Impact of Colonial Past on Contemporary Ethiopian Culture
- Global Movements for the Return of Looted Treasures
