United States finally returns 14 Turkish artifacts after 50 years

A significant diplomatic effort has led to the return of 14 cultural artifacts to Türkiye, marking the end of a 50-year struggle to reclaim items smuggled out of the country.

The Turkish artifacts, which include bronze statues, coins, and other historical objects, were handed over at a ceremony in New York at the Turkish House (Turk Evi) on September 13, 2024.

The successful recovery of these artifacts was made possible by the active cooperation between the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

Gokhan Yazgi, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism, represented Türkiye at the ceremony.

Repatriation of artifacts through Türkiye’s active efforts

Among the recovered cultural artifacts are two bronze heads and a large bronze statue from the ancient city of Boubon in Burdur.

These items, which date back to the first century B.C.E. and first century C.E., include a bronze head of a young man that was held at the Getty Museum.

Another significant piece, a bearded male head from the third century C.E., was recovered from the Santa Barbara Museum of Art.

Yazgi emphasized the cultural importance of the recovery, stating that the return of these artifacts serves not only Türkiye but also global heritage.

“These efforts contribute to the universal culture of humanity,” he noted, pointing to the ongoing fight against smuggling and efforts to protect Türkiye’s cultural heritage from further exploitation.

Broader repatriation of Turkish cultural heritage continues

The Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism has led several initiatives to reclaim Turkish cultural heritage.

This particular repatriation of artifacts includes various items from different periods in history, such as coins, ceramic vessels and two Ottoman-era daggers.

These artifacts had been part of collections in institutions like Miami University’s Lowe Art Museum and the Santa Barbara Museum of Art.

The event demonstrated the broader impact of Türkiye’s fight to recover its stolen artifacts. As Yazgi pointed out, the effort goes beyond mere return, as it strengthens Türkiye’s cultural foundation.

“These treasures belong to Türkiye, and they will be preserved for future generations in their rightful home,” he added.

Preserving cultural heritage by protecting Turkish artifacts

The repatriation of artifacts reflects Türkiye’s broader mission to protect its cultural heritage.

As part of a growing list of Turkish artifacts returned to the country, these items further show the country’s dedication to preserving its rich history.

Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, the Minister of Culture and Tourism, reinforced this point, saying, “We will continue to protect our heritage and ensure that these Turkish artifacts remain part of Türkiye’s historical legacy.”

By focusing on the repatriation of artifacts, Türkiye is not only regaining control over its own cultural heritage but also contributing to the preservation of global history.