Pressure grows for return of Nefertiti bust to Egypt
Al Jazeera · Just In
Al Jazeera
Just In
The Grand Egyptian Museum, recently opened near Cairo, showcases over 100,000 artefacts spanning seven millennia of Egyptian history. Yet one of Egypt’s most iconic treasures is noticeably absent—the bust of Nefertiti.
Breakdown
- The Nefertiti bust, carved over 3,000 years ago, was discovered by a German team in Amarna in 1912. 11s
- A controversial deal in 1913 allowed the bust to be taken to Germany, a decision disputed by Egyptian archaeologists. 22s
- The bust is a major attraction in Berlin, with half a million visitors each year, but many believe it should be returned to Egypt. 2m 3s
- A leading Egyptian archaeologist has renewed calls for the return of the Nefertiti bust, along with other artefacts such as the Rosetta Stone. 1m 31s
- Berlin authorities argue the acquisition was legitimate and that the bust is too fragile to transport. 2m 40s