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A total of Twelve ancient artefacts have been officially given back to the Ethiopian nation following staying by a family in Germany for over ten decades.

These artefacts, initially collected in the early twentieth century by Germany's diplomat to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his spouse Hedwig, were handed over on Wednesday to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at Addis Ababa University.

This assortment featured royal crowns, shields and artistic works, all viewed as historically significant in Ethiopia.

"The artefacts continue to serve as a symbol of the lasting and amicable relationship between Germany and the Ethiopian people," stated Germany's envoy, the representative to Ethiopia.

Professor a professor, whose parent was born during the family's assignment in the nation, delivered the artefacts at a ceremony witnessed by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.

He stated that the household's intention to give back the items was to "display their splendor with the public and preserve the heritage and history connected to my parent's origin."

The artefacts were either considered gifts or purchases, based on the household.

"I would like to thank Professor Weiss's household for concretely expressing their profound affection for Ethiopia by carefully maintaining these artifacts and crucially securing their homecoming to their rightful homeland," said the official.

The minister noted that the items would soon be made accessible to the general audience for research and academic study, calling the move a significant step in safeguarding the nation's historical legacy.

"Efforts are ongoing to repatriate historical artifacts that are held in the possession of collectors and entities throughout the globe," she affirmed.

During colonial rule in the African continent, thousands of cultural artefacts were plundered.

This request by African countries for the return of stolen items has been answered with some positive outcomes in lately - though some artefacts are only on loan.

In the year 2022, Germany was the pioneering country to give back a selection of the renowned Benin Bronzes to the West African nation in a bid to deal with its "troubled legacy."

Similar Topics

• Cultural Return Movements in the Continent
• This Effect of Imperial Past on Contemporary Ethiopian Heritage
• Global Movements for the Return of Looted Items