Germany Returns Two Sacred Indigenous Masks to Colombia in a Repatriation Effort

Historic Repatriation: Germany Returns Sacred Indigenous Masks to Colombia

After extensive deliberations, Germany has repatriated two sacred indigenous masks to Colombia in a momentous ceremony held in Berlin on June 16. The event was graced by the presence of Colombian President Gustavo Petro and German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier.

Cultural Reunion: Colombia Welcomes Home Ancient Kogi Masks from Germany

These masks, known as the Kogi masks, have a rich history dating back to the 15th century and originate from the indigenous community residing in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains in northern Colombia. Ethnologist Konrad Theodor Preuss legally acquired the masks in 1915 from the son of a deceased Kogi priest. Since then, they have been housed in the collection of the Ethnological Museum of Berlin.