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Türkiye has once again demonstrated its commitment to combating the illicit trafficking of cultural property, returning an ancient necklace from the Mochica culture to Peru. The artifact, dating between 200 B.C. and 600 A.D., was handed over to Peruvian officials in a ceremony held at the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations on May 13.
The ceremony was attended by Türkiye's Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gokhan Yazgi, and Cesar Augusto De Las Casas Diaz, Peru's Ambassador to Ankara, along with representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and museum officials.
"This necklace is not merely a piece of jewelry but a memory of a civilization," said Deputy Minister Yazgi during his speech. "Returning it to its rightful place is a meaningful step towards restoring the collective memory of humanity."
He also emphasized that the restitution process, conducted under the 1970 UNESCO Convention, has strengthened cultural cooperation between Türkiye and Peru.
Peru's Ambassador De Las Casas Diaz expressed gratitude for Türkiye's swift and effective cooperation, stating, "This return is not just an official procedure but a powerful expression of friendship and cultural understanding."
He further highlighted that the Mochica culture is an inseparable part of Peru's identity and national pride.
The ancient necklace was originally acquired by a Turkish citizen in the 1960s. In 2021, the owner approached the authorities, requesting an investigation into the authenticity of the artifact.
Scientific examinations conducted by experts from Peru's Ministry of Culture confirmed the necklace's origin as part of the Moche (Mochica) culture.
Upon learning that the necklace was protected in Peru, the Turkish citizen voluntarily initiated the return process, setting a commendable example.
The necklace was officially handed over to the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations on Jan. 23, 2025, for safekeeping before being transferred to Peruvian officials.
The return of the necklace coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and Peru, adding symbolic significance to the gesture.
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