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Exactly Twelve ancient objects were formally given back to Ethiopia after remaining by a German family for more than a century.

The items, initially collected in the 1920's by Germany's then-envoy to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his spouse his partner, were transferred on Wednesday to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at the capital's university.

This assortment contained headpieces, protective shields and paintings, all viewed as culturally significant in Ethiopia.

"The items continue to serve as a symbol of the long-standing and amicable connection between Germany and the Ethiopian people," said Ferdinand von Weyhe, Germany's representative to the East African country.

Dr. a professor, whose parent was born during the family's assignment in Ethiopia, delivered the artefacts at a ceremony attended by Tourism Minister the tourism official.

He said that the household's aim to restore the artefacts was to "share their appeal with the audience and maintain the culture and past tied to my parent's beginning."

The artefacts were either gifts or purchases, based on the relatives.

"We want to express gratitude to the Weiss household for concretely expressing their profound affection for the nation by diligently safeguarding these items and importantly guaranteeing their homecoming to their proper nation," commented the official.

She continued that the artefacts would shortly be opened to the general audience for research and educational purposes, calling the decision a milestone in preserving the nation's cultural heritage.

"Initiatives are ongoing to repatriate old artifacts that are held in the possession of individuals and institutions all over the globe," the minister said.

During imperial control in Africa, numerous of cultural items were taken.

This request by the continent's states for the return of taken items has been responded to by a degree of positive outcomes in lately - although several objects are merely on short-term display.

Back in two years ago, Germany was the first nation to give back a portion of the renowned Benin Bronzes to the West African nation as part of an effort to address its "troubled legacy."

Related Topics

• Cultural Restoration Efforts in the Continent
• The Effect of Imperial History on Modern Ethiopian Heritage
• Global Movements for the Return of Stolen Items