France on Tuesday returned 26 treasures to Benin that were looted in the 19th century. Roselyne Bachelot and Jean-Michel Abimbola, culture ministers of the two countries, signed an agreement to transfer ownership of the artifacts at the presidential palace in Paris, reported Reuters.
The artifacts were on display at the Quai Branly Museum in Paris until public pressure led to their return to Benin’s Ouidah Museum of History.
Benin President Patrice Talon and Culture Minister Jean-Michel Abimbola went to Paris to bring home the artifacts that were snatched by French forces 130 years ago.
Talon said he felt overwhelmed at recovering the objects taken during the ransacking of the Dahomey kingdom in the south of present-day Benin. The treasure includes a royal throne, three totems, four ornate palace doors, several altars, and three warrior dance staff.
The Benin president also said the return of the 26 artifacts was just the first step in a large-scale restitution process. He said the treasures were much more than cultural goods – the term used by France to describe them.
“This is our soul, Mr. President,” he said referring to French President Emmanuel Macron.
The French leader hailed “a symbolic, moving and historic moment” which had been long-awaited by Africans.
The restitution is part of a drive by President Macron to improve his country’s image in Africa, especially among young people.
The objects from the 18th and 19th century kingdom of Abomey, known at the time in Europe as Dahomey, will be flown back on Wednesday for display in Benin. They will be kept at the Ouidah Museum of History and then will be sent on a tour of the country before being housed at their original home, the royal palaces of Abomey, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Benin is currently constructing a museum at the site slated for completion in 2026.
