Ancient Artifacts Returned to Nepal from Belgium

Kathmandu. The Department of Archaeology has brought back ancient artifacts of historical importance, including the idol of Parshuram, a Tundal, and religious murals, which were stolen and taken abroad at various times, from Belgium. These stolen artifacts were recently brought back to the country with the help of domestic and foreign heritage activists after being found in Belgium.

According to Archaeology Officer Sarita Subedi, these artifacts, which are important from an archaeological perspective, will be restored to their respective temples after verifying the claim of the place from which they were lost.

When information is received about stolen Nepali artifacts, statues, artworks, and heritage being found in any country in the world, the department initiates the process for their return. It is stated that when Nepali artifacts lost from Nepal are found in various museums abroad, the process of bringing back the heritage begins through the cooperation of the government, various organizations, activists, and scholars.

Officer Subedi informed that the Department has records of Nepali heritage being lost from the 1950s to the 1980s. According to international law, if the heritage of any country is found in other countries of the world, it must be returned to the respective country after completing the necessary legal procedures.

When artifacts that have reached museums, auction houses, or private collections in various countries are returned, the concerned country bears the transportation costs. Nepali communities residing internationally and organizations active in the heritage sector also provide assistance.

Examples of wood carving, sculpture, stone carving, and architectural samples built during the medieval period in the Kathmandu Valley are especially adorned in various monasteries and temples. This has helped in studying the state of artistic style and construction during the contemporary society.