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Exactly 12 ancient artefacts were ceremoniously given back to Ethiopia after staying by a German family for over 100 years.

These treasures, first collected in the 1920's by Germany's diplomat to the Ethiopian empire a German envoy and his spouse Hedwig, were handed over on this past Wednesday to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at the capital's university.

This assortment contained crowns, armor and artistic works, each viewed as historically valuable in the country.

"The treasures still represent a mark of the lasting and amicable ties between Germany and the Ethiopian people," remarked Germany's envoy, the ambassador to Ethiopia.

Professor a professor, whose parent was born during the family's assignment in the nation, handed over the objects at a gathering attended by the Minister of Tourism Selamawit Kassa.

He stated that the household's goal to give back the treasures was to "share their splendor with the audience and safeguard the culture and history tied to my parent's beginning."

These objects were either considered presents or buys, according to the household.

"We want to express gratitude to the Weiss household for practically demonstrating their deep love for the nation by carefully preserving these items and vitally guaranteeing their return to their rightful nation," commented the tourism minister.

She continued that the pieces would shortly be made accessible to the public for study and scholarly work, terming the decision a milestone in safeguarding Ethiopia's cultural heritage.

"Efforts will continue to repatriate old artifacts that are located in the possession of collectors and institutions all over the world," she stated.

During colonial rule in Africa, thousands of traditional objects were looted.

The demand by African countries for the repatriation of looted items has been met with some success in the past few years - although some artefacts are only on temporary return.

In two years ago, the German government was the pioneering nation to repatriate a portion of the well-known Benin artifacts to the West African nation as part of an effort to confront its "dark legacy."

Related Themes

• Cultural Restoration Movements in the Continent
• This Significance of Imperial Past on Contemporary African Heritage
• Global Campaigns for the Return of Stolen Treasures