On Monday Germany returned 14 priceless looted ancient artifacts to Italy after Rome’s crack art cops, the Carabinieri for the Protection of the Cultural Heritage (TPC) unit, tracked them down to museums and collectors in the northern European country.
The hoard includes an Attic kylix or drinking cup, a fourth century BC bronze Corinthian helmet, an ivory and wooden treasure chest from the famed Embriachi workshop, a “pauceta” olla or earthenware jar, and many bronze and gold coins.
The handover took place in the presence of German Ambassador to Italy Viktor Elbling and TPC Commander General Vincenzo Molinese.
The Italian culture ministry said “the sequester and definitive delivery of the 14 cultural assets was the fruit of collaboration between the TPC and the BLKA (police) in Munich, as well as the liaison between the respective culture ministries.”
This event not only signifies the repatriation of Italy’s cultural heritage but also underscores the importance of international cooperation in combating the illegal trade of ancient artifacts. The joint efforts of law enforcement agencies and cultural institutions play a vital role in preserving and safeguarding the world’s cultural treasures for future generations.
