Newsroom
In a significant cultural milestone, 69 ancient Cypriot artefacts were officially handed over to Cypriot authorities in Vienna, Austria, on Saturday, paving the way for their repatriation. The artefacts, which date from the Bronze Age to the Ottoman period, were discovered in a Vienna apartment inherited by an individual identified as O.D., who voluntarily returned them upon learning of their illegal export from Cyprus.
The handover ceremony took place in the presence of the Deputy Minister of Culture, Vasiliki Kassianidou, alongside representatives from Austria’s Ministries of European and International Affairs, Arts and Culture, and international organizations including the OSCE and UNODC. The Republic of Cyprus’ Ambassador to Austria, Andreas Ignatiou, also played a pivotal role in the event, held at the Museum of Military History and the University of Vienna.
The collection includes ceramic vessels, terracotta figurine fragments, stone artefacts, glass bottles, a bone fibula, and a pipe. These artefacts represent a diverse timeline of Cyprus’ rich historical legacy.
The Department of Antiquities of Cyprus expressed gratitude toward O.D. for his ethical decision to return the items. Their statement also acknowledged the efforts of the Cypriot Embassy in Austria, particularly Ambassador Ignatiou and Charilaos Palmas, whose contributions were instrumental in the successful outcome of this case.
As the body responsible for safeguarding Cyprus’ archaeological heritage, the Department reaffirmed its commitment to combating the looting and illicit trafficking of cultural treasures. Their strategy includes international collaborations, targeted investigations, advanced technological applications, and public awareness campaigns to protect and preserve cultural heritage.
This repatriation effort is part of Cyprus’ ongoing initiatives to recover its cultural heritage. Authorities underscored the vital role of public awareness in preventing illicit trafficking and preserving historical artefacts for future generations.
Source: CNA
