The East African nation Receives Cultural Treasures After a Long Holding in German Hands

Around Twelve cultural objects have been officially given back to the Ethiopian nation following staying by a German family for more than 100 years.

The artefacts, initially acquired in the 1920s by the German diplomat to Ethiopia Franz Weiss and his spouse Hedwig, were handed over on midweek to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at the university in Addis Ababa.

The assortment featured royal crowns, armor and paintings, all viewed as historically important in Ethiopia.

"These items continue to stand as a emblem of the lasting and friendly ties between the German nation and Ethiopia," remarked Ferdinand von Weyhe, Germany's representative to Ethiopia.

Dr. Ramon Wyss, whose parent was born during the household's service in the nation, presented the objects at a event joined by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.

He explained that the family's intention to give back the artefacts was to "showcase their beauty with the audience and maintain the culture and history connected to my father's birth."

These artefacts were either presents or purchases, based on the family.

"I would like to thank the Weiss relatives for concretely expressing their sincere appreciation for the nation by carefully maintaining these items and vitally securing their homecoming to their legitimate homeland," commented the minister of tourism.

The minister continued that the artefacts would soon be made accessible to the general audience for research and educational purposes, terming the decision a milestone in safeguarding Ethiopia's national treasures.

"Actions will continue to bring back historical items that are found in the hands of collectors and entities all over the globe," the minister said.

During imperial control in Africa, thousands of traditional artefacts were plundered.

The demand by nations in Africa for the repatriation of stolen objects has been answered with certain progress in lately - though some objects are just on loan.

Back in two years ago, Germany was the first nation to return some of the renowned Benin artifacts to Nigeria as part of an effort to deal with its "dark past."

Related Themes

• Historical Return Movements in the Continent
• This Effect of Imperial Past on Contemporary African Culture
• International Movements for the Restitution of Stolen Treasures