Bogotá exhibition displays 1,194 repatriated pre-Columbian artefacts

The Museo Nacional de Colombia in Bogotá is showcasing an exhibition titled 'Pasados en retorno. Repatriación del patrimonio arqueológico' until August 23. This event features 1,194 pre-Columbian artifacts that will be displayed publicly for the first time, all of which were returned during President Gustavo Petro's administration from 2022 to 2026. The pieces come from 13 countries, with 80% being returned voluntarily, while the others were seized from auctions or trafficking. Key contributors include the US with 384 items, Italy with 208, and Chile with 174. Curated by Natalia Angarita, the display emphasizes ethical considerations around these returns and includes ongoing repatriation claims like the Quimbaya Collection and the San Agustín sculptures. Abelardo de la Espriella, a far-right lawyer, will take office on August 7.