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Around Twelve ancient items were ceremoniously restored to Ethiopia following staying by a household from Germany for in excess of a century.

These treasures, originally gathered in the 1920's by the German representative to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his wife his partner, were transferred on Wednesday to the Ethiopian Studies Institute at Addis Ababa University.

This collection contained headpieces, armor and canvases, each viewed as historically significant in the nation.

"These artefacts still serve as a mark of the lasting and amicable ties between Germany and the Ethiopian people," said Ferdinand von Weyhe, Germany's representative to the East African country.

Professor Ramon Wyss, whose father was born during the family's diplomatic posting in Ethiopia, presented the objects at a event witnessed by the Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa.

He stated that the household's goal to restore the items was to "showcase their beauty with the public and maintain the culture and past linked to my father's beginning."

The items were either presents or purchases, according to the family.

"We would like to express gratitude to Professor Weiss's family for concretely showing their deep appreciation for Ethiopia by diligently safeguarding these artifacts and importantly guaranteeing their return to their legitimate country," stated the official.

The minister added that the pieces would shortly be made accessible to the general audience for research and academic study, terming the action a landmark in preserving the nation's national treasures.

"Efforts will continue to repatriate ancient artifacts that are held in the custody of collectors and entities throughout the world," she said.

In the era of colonialism in the African continent, many of traditional items were taken.

This call by the continent's states for the repatriation of looted objects has been met with a degree of progress in recent years - though several objects are only on short-term display.

Back in two years ago, Germany was the first country to return a portion of the renowned Benin Bronzes to the Nigerian people in an attempt to deal with its "dark legacy."

Similar Topics

• Historical Restoration Efforts in Africa
• This Impact of Colonial Past on Contemporary African Heritage
• International Movements for the Return of Looted Items