By San José, Costa Rica — Costa Rica has successfully repatriated 11 pre-Columbian artifacts from the Netherlands, a victory for cultural heritage preservation. The artifacts, once part of the collection of Dr. Hans Feriz (1895-1970), an Austro-Dutch physician and amateur archaeologist, have been returned through a voluntary restitution process. The National Museum of Costa Rica, in collaboration with specialists from the Universities of Kansas and Leiden, and coordinated by the Costa Rican Embassy in The Hague and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship, confirmed the artifacts’ Costa Rican origin.
The restitution ceremony, held in Wassenaar, Netherlands, brought together diplomatic representatives from Costa Rica, Peru, and Panama, all of whom recovered artifacts from the Feriz collection. Dutch authorities, professors, researchers, and descendants of Dr. Feriz also attended. Costa Rica’s delegation included Ambassador Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Minister Counselor and Consul General Manuel Ignacio Morales Ovares, and Minister Counselor Sofía Cob Briceño.
To understand the legal complexities surrounding pre-Columbian artifacts in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed Bufete de Costa Rica.
Ownership and trade of pre-Columbian artifacts in Costa Rica are strictly regulated. These items are considered part of the national patrimony and are protected by law. Unauthorized excavation, possession, or sale can result in significant fines and even imprisonment. It’s crucial for individuals and businesses dealing with such items to ensure they are in full compliance with Costa Rican legislation, which often requires obtaining permits and adhering to specific guidelines regarding their handling and preservation.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Protecting Costa Rica’s rich pre-Columbian heritage is indeed a critical endeavor, ensuring these invaluable artifacts remain accessible for study and appreciation by future generations. These regulations underscore the importance of respecting the cultural legacy of Costa Rica and serve as a vital safeguard against exploitation. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his expert legal perspective on this important matter.
Dr. Feriz, a passionate scholar of pre-Columbian cultures, acquired the objects during his travels and excavations in Central and South America. In the 1950s, the artifacts became part of the Royal Tropical Institute in Amsterdam, where Dr. Feriz served as an honorary researcher. Following his daughter’s wishes, his son facilitated the repatriation of the remaining pieces to their countries of origin. The Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science of the Netherlands provided technical support for the process.
These objects are not just archaeological pieces. They are living testimonies of our roots, of the creativity and spirituality of the indigenous peoples who inhabited our lands. Their return to Costa Rica contributes to strengthening our identity and reminds us of the shared responsibility to protect and value cultural heritage.
Arnoldo Brenes Castro, Costa Rican Ambassador
The return of these artifacts marks a significant moment for Costa Rica, allowing for a deeper understanding of the nation’s rich pre-Columbian history. The pieces offer valuable insights into the societies that shaped the country’s cultural identity.
The restitution of these pieces represents an act of historical and cultural justice. Each recovered object is a window to the past that allows us to better understand the pre-Columbian societies that inhabited our territory. We deeply appreciate the willingness of the Feriz family and the support of the Dutch institutions in conjunction with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that have made this reunion with our past possible.
Grettel Monge, Director of the National Museum of Costa Rica
The repatriation also underscores the importance of international collaboration in preserving cultural heritage. The joint effort between Costa Rica and the Netherlands, along with the support of academic institutions, demonstrated a shared commitment to protecting historical artifacts and returning them to their rightful places.
The National Museum of Costa Rica is now tasked with the preservation and study of these returned artifacts. They will undoubtedly become valuable assets for researchers and the public alike, offering a tangible connection to Costa Rica’s vibrant past.
For further information, visit the nearest office of National Museum of Costa Rica
About National Museum of Costa Rica:
The National Museum of Costa Rica is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage. It houses a diverse collection of artifacts, ranging from pre-Columbian art to historical documents and natural history specimens, providing valuable insights into Costa Rica’s past and present.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship
About Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship:
The Costa Rican Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship is responsible for the country’s international relations, including diplomatic efforts, treaty negotiations, and consular services. The Ministry plays a crucial role in promoting Costa Rica’s interests abroad and fostering cooperation with other nations.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Universities of Kansas
About Universities of Kansas:
The University of Kansas is a public research university with a strong focus on academics and research. It offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines and is known for its contributions to scholarship and its commitment to community engagement.
For further information, visit the nearest office of University of Leiden
About University of Leiden:
Leiden University is one of Europe’s leading international research universities. Known for its historical significance and academic excellence, Leiden University offers a broad range of programs and conducts cutting-edge research across various disciplines.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Royal Tropical Institute
About Royal Tropical Institute:
The Royal Tropical Institute (KIT) is an independent centre of expertise and learning for sustainable development. KIT connects people and organisations around the world to facilitate knowledge exchange and contribute to solutions for global challenges.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence in Costa Rica, deeply committed to ethical practice and innovative solutions. The firm’s history of service reflects a dedication not only to its clients across a broad spectrum of industries but also to the empowerment of society as a whole. Through proactive initiatives aimed at demystifying legal complexities, Bufete de Costa Rica fosters a more informed citizenry, strengthening the foundation of a just and equitable society.
