Emperor Tewodros II Relics Return to Ethiopia in Landmark Repatriation from UK

Addis Ababa, May 12, 2026 (FMC) — Relics associated with Emperor Tewodros II, taken to Britain following the 1868 Maqdala campaign, were formally returned to Ethiopia during a ceremony at St Martin’s Chapel, University of Cumbria, United Kingdom.

In a recorded video message, Ethiopian Heritage Authority Director General Professor Abebaw Ayalew described the handover as an important act of cultural restoration and historical significance.

The repatriated items include strands of hair belonging to Emperor Tewodros II and a blood-stained piece of cloth linked to the emperor’s final moments at Maqdala. Following a blessing ceremony, Dr. Alula Pankhurst received the relics on behalf of the Ethiopian Heritage Authority.

Researcher Eyob Derillo, whose personal initiative and sustained engagement helped advance the repatriation process, presented the Abyssinia Collection Research Project alongside Carolyn Dalton of Lancaster Museum.

The event brought together Ethiopian clergy, British scholars, diplomats from the Ethiopian Embassy in London, and museum representatives to jointly commemorate the return.

Professor Abebaw said the relics represented the core of Ethiopia’s identity, memory, and heritage.

He described the 1868 expedition as a complex and sensitive chapter in shared history and said the return reflected growing trust and cooperation between institutions in Britain and Ethiopia.

The ceremony also included remarks by the great-grandson of Sir Robert Napier, who led the 1868 expedition.

He handed over a golden bracelet originally gifted by Emperor Tewodros II to a British army member.

The repatriation symbolized a shared commitment to historical understanding, dialogue, and cultural reconciliation, it was mentioned.