Norway returns cultural objects to Peru

Peru.Machu Picchu

Norway returns illegally imported cultural objects to Peru

Eleven illegally introduced objects seized by the Norwegian Customs in 2017 have now been returned to Peru.

 

“Peru and Norway are actively working to stop illegal trade in cultural objects. It is, therefore, a pleasure for me to return Peruvian cultural treasures back to their homeland,” said Secretary of State, Marianne Hagen of Høyre (H) when she met Peru’s Foreign Minister, Popolizio Bardales, on Monday.

The transfer of the eleven tools and weapons in stone and bronze took place during an official ceremony at Peru’s Foreign Ministry in the capital of Lima wrote the office of the Prime Minister in a press release.

The objects were seized last autumn in connection with a comprehensive international investigation of cultural crime.

Peruvian and Norwegian experts ruled that most of the eleven objects are from the Inca empire period between 1400 and 1532, but also from prehistoric Peruvian times. The oldest is dated to 1700 BC.

“Archaeological objects are part of the culture, identity, and history of a country. They are irreplaceable. Theft of cultural objects and antiques means loss of unique cultural heritage,” said Hagen.

 

© NTB scanpix / #Norway Today