An ancient Egyptian statue, more than 3,000 years old, has been returned to Egypt after being stolen and smuggled out of the country over 30 years ago, according to the authorities.
The statue represents the head of Ramses II, a prominent ancient Egyptian pharaoh known for his military campaigns and monumental construction projects.
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced on Sunday that the statue is “part of a larger sculpture that portrays King Ramses II seated alongside several Egyptian gods.” This particular piece, which is estimated to be over 3,400 years old, was originally from the Ramses II temple in Abydos, an ancient city in Egypt.
Egyptian authorities first noticed the statue in 2013 when it appeared for sale at a gallery in London. Following this discovery, the statue changed hands and locations several times, eventually ending up in Switzerland. With the assistance of Swiss authorities, Egypt was able to reclaim it.
The artefact will now undergo a process of restoration and maintenance at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo to prepare it for public display and conservation.
Once the restoration and maintenance work is completed, the ancient Egyptian statue will join a collection of other artifacts at the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, where visitors from around the world can appreciate its historical significance and artistry. The museum is home to numerous pieces that showcase the rich heritage of ancient Egypt, providing invaluable insights into the country’s history, culture, and religious beliefs.
The return of this artifact is part of a broader effort by Egyptian authorities to recover stolen cultural treasures and repatriate them to their place of origin. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has been working closely with international agencies and other countries to track down and retrieve items that have been illegally removed from Egypt’s archaeological sites.
This successful recovery demonstrates the ongoing commitment of Egyptian officials to preserve their nation’s heritage and maintain the integrity of their ancient sites. It also underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating the illicit trade of antiquities, which not only deprives countries of their cultural assets but also undermines global efforts to preserve history.
As the statue returns to its rightful place, it serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of ancient Egyptian civilization and the importance of respecting and protecting cultural heritage. The recovery of this piece not only restores a tangible connection to Egypt’s past but also paves the way for the return of other significant artifacts in the future.
