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A total of 12 historical artefacts have been formally restored to Ethiopia following staying by a household from Germany for in excess of ten decades.

These artefacts, originally acquired in the early twentieth century by Germany's representative to Ethiopia Franz Weiss and his wife Hedwig, were delivered on Wednesday to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at Addis Ababa University.

The set featured crowns, protective shields and paintings, each considered as historically significant in Ethiopia.

"The treasures still stand as a emblem of the lasting and friendly relationship between the German nation and Ethiopia," stated Germany's envoy, the ambassador to Ethiopia.

Dr. a professor, whose parent was born during the household's assignment in the nation, delivered the objects at a gathering witnessed by the Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa.

He stated that the household's aim to give back the treasures was to "display their appeal with the public and preserve the heritage and history connected to my father's beginning."

These objects were either considered presents or acquisitions, according to the relatives.

"We want to thank Professor Weiss's relatives for actively demonstrating their sincere appreciation for the nation by meticulously safeguarding these artifacts and vitally guaranteeing their return to their rightful country," stated the official.

The minister noted that the pieces would in the near future be made accessible to the public for research and academic study, describing the decision a milestone in preserving the nation's cultural heritage.

"Initiatives persist to return historical items that are held in the possession of collectors and organizations throughout the world," she said.

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

This demand by the continent's states for the repatriation of stolen items has been answered with a degree of success in recent years - although some artefacts are just on loan.

Back in two years ago, Germany was the pioneering state to give back some of the well-known Benin Bronzes to the West African nation as part of an effort to deal with its "complex past."

Connected Themes

• Cultural Return Initiatives in the Continent
• This Significance of Imperial History on Modern African Heritage
• Global Movements for the Return of Stolen Treasures