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Around Twelve historical objects were ceremoniously given back to Ethiopia after being kept by a household from Germany for over a century.

The items, first gathered in the early twentieth century by Germany's diplomat to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his spouse his partner, were handed over on this past Wednesday to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at the capital's university.

The collection included royal crowns, protective shields and artistic works, all viewed as culturally significant in Ethiopia.

"These artefacts continue to serve as a emblem of the lasting and amicable connection between Germany and Ethiopia," stated the German diplomat, the envoy to Ethiopia.

Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose parent was delivered during the household's diplomatic posting in Ethiopia, presented the objects at a gathering joined by the Minister of Tourism the tourism official.

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

These artefacts were either presents or buys, as stated by the relatives.

"We want to thank Professor Weiss's relatives for actively demonstrating their profound love for the nation by meticulously safeguarding these items and importantly guaranteeing their return to their rightful homeland," commented the minister of tourism.

The minister noted that the artefacts would in the near future be made accessible to the public for investigation and scholarly work, terming the action a milestone in protecting Ethiopia's national treasures.

"Initiatives persist to repatriate ancient objects that are held in the hands of private persons and entities around the globe," the minister affirmed.

During imperial control in the African continent, thousands of cultural items were looted.

This call by African countries for the restoration of taken artefacts has been responded to by a degree of progress in the past few years - although some items are just on temporary return.

Back in two years ago, the German government was the first country to give back a selection of the well-known Benin artifacts to the Nigerian people as part of an effort to address its "complex past."

Related Topics

• Historical Return Initiatives in Africa
• This Effect of Colonial Past on Modern Ethiopian Heritage
• Global Movements for the Restitution of Looted Treasures