Ethiopia has recovered the shield of Emperor Tewodros II, a national treasure, which was stolen 156 years ago and taken away from the country by the UK during the Anglo-Ethiopian war, a local broadcaster, EBC, reported.
"After a century and a half away, a symbol of Ethiopian history has finally returned home. The shield of Emperor Tewodros II, stolen during the Meqdela War in 1868, has been repatriated to Ethiopia," the media said.
As noted, the Ethiopian Heritage Protection Authority has been trying to recover the shield for over a year, and the relic itself was even due to be auctioned in 2023, but the auction was cancelled thanks to the efforts of the authority and the support of prince Ermias Sahle Selassie Haile Selassie, a descendant of Ethiopian emperors.
"This historic return marks a significant moment for Ethiopia, as the shield represents a crucial piece of the country's heritage and a powerful symbol of Emperor Tewodros' legacy," EBC emphasized.
The artifact was captured during the Battle of Maqdala (also known as Magdala, which is now Amba Mariam village) in 1868. The British Lord Napier defeated the Ethiopian Emperor Tewodros II in the battle, and then his troops looted thousands of items. These treasures were taken to the UK and ended up in both private collections and public museums.