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Around 12 ancient objects have been officially given back to the Ethiopian nation following being kept by a family in Germany for in excess of 100 years.

These treasures, originally acquired in the early twentieth century by Germany's diplomat to Ethiopia Franz Weiss and his spouse his partner, were handed over on Wednesday to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at the capital's university.

The collection contained headpieces, armor and paintings, all viewed as culturally valuable in the nation.

"The treasures still represent a mark of the lasting and positive ties between Germany and Ethiopia," said Ferdinand von Weyhe, the representative to Ethiopia.

Professor a professor, whose father was delivered during the family's assignment in the nation, delivered the artefacts at a gathering joined by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa.

He explained that the family's intention to give back the artefacts was to "share their appeal with the people and preserve the culture and past tied to my parent's origin."

The objects were either considered gifts or buys, according to the household.

"I want to thank Professor Weiss's relatives for actively showing their deep appreciation for the nation by carefully maintaining these items and importantly guaranteeing their return to their proper country," commented the official.

The minister continued that the artefacts would in the near future be opened to the people for investigation and scholarly work, describing the move a milestone in safeguarding the nation's cultural heritage.

"Initiatives persist to return ancient artifacts that are found in the possession of private persons and organizations throughout the world," the minister stated.

In the era of imperial control in the African continent, numerous of cultural items were plundered.

The demand by the continent's states for the return of stolen objects has been met with certain progress in lately - although several items are just on short-term display.

Back in two years ago, Germany was the first nation to give back a portion of the famous Benin artifacts to Nigeria in a bid to deal with its "dark past."

Similar Themes

• Historical Return Efforts in Africa
• The Impact of Colonial Past on Modern African Culture
• Global Campaigns for the Restitution of Stolen Treasures