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

These items, originally gathered in the 1920's by Germany's diplomat to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his spouse his partner, were delivered on midweek to the research center at the university in Addis Ababa.

The assortment included headpieces, shields and artistic works, each viewed as historically important in the nation.

"These treasures still represent a emblem of the lasting and positive ties between the German nation and the Ethiopian people," said the German diplomat, the representative to Ethiopia.

Professor a professor, whose father was born during the household's diplomatic posting in the nation, presented the artefacts at a event witnessed by the Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa.

He said that the family's intention to give back the treasures was to "display their splendor with the audience and safeguard the heritage and history connected to my father's origin."

These objects were either considered donations or buys, as stated by the family.

"We would like to express gratitude to the Weiss family for actively showing their profound appreciation for Ethiopia by diligently safeguarding these treasures and vitally guaranteeing their return to their rightful nation," stated the tourism minister.

She noted that the items would shortly be opened to the general audience for research and educational purposes, calling the decision a landmark in safeguarding the nation's historical legacy.

"Efforts will continue to repatriate historical items that are located in the possession of collectors and organizations throughout the globe," the minister said.

In the era of imperial control in the African continent, thousands of historical objects were taken.

This demand by nations in Africa for the return of taken artefacts has been answered with some progress in recent years - although some artefacts are merely on loan.

Back in two years ago, Germany was the first country to return some of the renowned Benin artifacts to the Nigerian people as part of an effort to deal with its "dark colonial history."

Related Themes

• Cultural Restoration Efforts in Africa
• This Significance of Colonial Past on Contemporary Ethiopian Heritage
• International Movements for the Return of Stolen Artefacts