Addis Ababa, November 21, 2025
Twelve historic Ethiopian artefacts held by a German family since the 1920s were formally returned to Ethiopia in a ceremony at Addis Ababa University in November 2025, marking a significant step in cultural heritage repatriation and reinforcing longstanding diplomatic ties between Ethiopia and Germany.
Details of the Artefacts
The returned items include culturally significant crowns, shields, and paintings, emblematic of Ethiopia’s rich historical and artistic heritage. These artefacts were originally collected during the 1920s by Franz Weiss, then the German envoy to Ethiopia, and his wife Hedwig. The twelve pieces reflect Ethiopia’s traditional craftsmanship and historical narratives.
The Weiss Family’s Role and Diplomatic Context
The Weiss family privately preserved these artefacts for over a century before deciding to return them to Ethiopia to support public access and cultural education. The repatriation event, held at the Institute of Ethiopian Studies, drew the presence of Ethiopian Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa and German officials, underscoring the amicable diplomatic relationship between the two countries. This return coincides with the celebration of 120 years of diplomatic ties between Ethiopia and Germany, highlighting mutual respect and cooperation.
Implications for Heritage Preservation, Research, and Tourism
The repatriated artefacts are slated for public exhibition, alongside a photo exhibition featuring 51 rare photographs from the Weiss family depicting Ethiopian life in the 1920s. This dual exhibition aims to enhance public and scholarly engagement with Ethiopia’s history, substantially boosting academic research and the local tourism sector. The Ethiopian government has emphasized that this repatriation fortifies efforts to preserve national cultural patrimony and stimulate cultural interest among both domestic and international visitors.
Broader Context of Cultural Repatriation
This event aligns with global movements advocating for the return of African cultural objects taken during colonial times. Ethiopia’s government continues to pursue the recovery of other ancient artefacts held by private collectors and institutions worldwide, seeking to restore the nation’s cultural heritage comprehensively. Such repatriations contribute to restoring historical justice while promoting international cultural cooperation.
The repatriation of these artefacts not only restores important cultural assets to Ethiopia but also enhances academic study, supports cultural tourism, and strengthens international relations, signaling a commitment to preserving and honoring Ethiopia’s heritage for future generations.