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Exactly Twelve cultural artefacts have been formally restored to Ethiopia after staying by a household from Germany for in excess of 100 years.

These artefacts, first collected in the 1920's by the German diplomat to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his wife Hedwig, were transferred on Wednesday to the research center at the capital's university.

This set contained crowns, shields and canvases, all regarded as historically valuable in the country.

"The artefacts continue to stand as a mark of the long-standing and positive connection between Germany and Ethiopia," remarked the German diplomat, Germany's ambassador to Ethiopia.

Professor Ramon Wyss, whose father was born during the family's assignment in Ethiopia, delivered the items at a event joined by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.

He said that the household's aim to give back the treasures was to "showcase their splendor with the people and preserve the culture and past tied to my father's birth."

The objects were either considered donations or buys, based on the relatives.

"We want to thank Professor Weiss's relatives for concretely expressing their sincere appreciation for the nation by meticulously maintaining these artifacts and vitally guaranteeing their return to their rightful homeland," stated the minister of tourism.

She continued that the pieces would soon be available to the public for study and academic study, terming the action a landmark in protecting the nation's cultural heritage.

"Actions are ongoing to return ancient artifacts that are found in the possession of individuals and organizations around the world," the minister stated.

In the era of colonialism in Africa, numerous of cultural artefacts were taken.

The demand by nations in Africa for the restoration of stolen artefacts has been answered with a degree of success in the past few years - although some items are only on short-term display.

Back in the year 2022, Germany was the pioneering country to repatriate a selection of the renowned Benin Bronzes to the Nigerian people in an attempt to deal with its "dark legacy."

Connected Topics

• Cultural Return Movements in Africa
• The Impact of Colonial History on Modern Ethiopian Heritage
• International Movements for the Return of Stolen Items