Istanbul:Türkiye has successfully secured the return of 100 cultural artifacts from the United States, presenting them officially at the Istanbul Archaeological Museums. The event was attended by Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy and Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Matthew Bogdanos.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the event also marked the opening of the exhibition 'No Escape Boubon,' emphasizing Türkiye's efforts in combating the illegal trafficking of cultural heritage. The returned collection includes 40 artifacts from Horoztepe in Tokat, dating back to 2300-2000 BC, and 44 terracotta architectural panels from Duver in Burdur, dating to 700-480 BC. Other notable items include a portrait from the ancient city of Aphrodisias, theatrical masks, and goddess statuettes.

Minister Ersoy highlighted the crucial role of scientific research, archival documents, and international cooperation in tracing and securing the return of these artifacts. He acknowledged the contributions of researchers, journalists, and local residents in establishing the origins of the objects. A significant feature of the exhibition is the bronze statues from the ancient city of Boubon in Burdur, which were illegally excavated in the 1960s. These statues, dismantled and distributed among collections in various countries, were identified and repatriated through research led by Professor Jale Inan.

Ersoy also noted that excavations at Boubon, which resumed in 2023, are ongoing. Meanwhile, Bogdanos announced that New York's Antiquities Trafficking Unit has recovered 6,452 looted antiquities, which include 276 objects originating from Türkiye. He emphasized the necessity of international cooperation and the responsibility of museums, auction houses, galleries, and private collectors to verify the origins of artifacts. Both officials underscored the importance of returning stolen antiquities to protect humanity's shared cultural heritage.