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Exactly Twelve cultural artefacts were ceremoniously given back to Ethiopia after remaining by a family in Germany for in excess of a century.

The artefacts, first gathered in the 1920's by Germany's diplomat to Ethiopia a German envoy and his spouse his partner, were delivered on this past Wednesday to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at Addis Ababa University.

This collection included crowns, armor and paintings, each regarded as historically valuable in the country.

"The treasures continue to serve as a symbol of the enduring and friendly connection between Germany and the Ethiopian people," remarked Germany's envoy, Germany's envoy to Ethiopia.

Professor Ramon Wyss, whose father was delivered during the family's service in Ethiopia, handed over the artefacts at a ceremony attended by the Minister of Tourism the tourism official.

He said that the household's goal to return the artefacts was to "showcase their beauty with the people and safeguard the heritage and history tied to my parent's birth."

The items were either gifts or acquisitions, as stated by the relatives.

"I want to thank Professor Weiss's family for concretely demonstrating their deep love for Ethiopia by meticulously safeguarding these treasures and crucially securing their repatriation to their rightful homeland," commented the official.

She noted that the pieces would in the near future be opened to the public for investigation and educational purposes, terming the action a landmark in preserving the nation's historical legacy.

"Actions are ongoing to bring back historical artifacts that are held in the custody of individuals and entities all over the planet," the minister said.

During colonialism in Africa, numerous of traditional artefacts were taken.

The call by nations in Africa for the restoration of looted items has been answered with certain success in the past few years - although several items are merely on short-term display.

Back in two years ago, the German government was the initial country to repatriate a portion of the renowned Benin artifacts to the West African nation in a bid to confront its "dark legacy."

Connected Themes

• Historical Restoration Movements in the Continent
• The Impact of Colonial History on Contemporary African Heritage
• International Campaigns for the Return of Looted Treasures