2,500-year-old stolen golden helmet found in the Netherlands
Kyiv • UNN
Police recovered the Cotofenești helmet and two bracelets stolen in January 2025. The artifacts were largely undamaged; a third golden bracelet is still being sought.
In the Netherlands, a 5th-century BC Cotofenești golden helmet, stolen during a museum robbery in January 2025, has been returned. This was reported by the country's law enforcement agencies, according to Nordot, writes UNN.
Details
Along with the helmet, two of the three stolen golden bracelets were found. The third artifact is still being sought.
"The Cotofenești helmet and two Dacian golden bracelets have been returned, and we are happy to report this,"
Artifacts almost undamaged
Drents Museum director Robert van Lang said the helmet had minor damage that was "very difficult to even see" and could be fully restored.
"The two bracelets are in perfect condition,"
Dutch art detective Arthur Brand called the return of the find a great success.
"This is wonderful. This is the best news we could have received,"
The theft caused an international outcry
The robbery took place in January 2025 – criminals blew up the Drents Museum and stole artifacts. According to the investigation, at least three suspects are involved in the case.
Romanian Foreign Minister Oana Toiu called the return of the find "extraordinary news."
"It's so important not to give up when something is so valuable to several generations,"
The theft caused a significant outcry in Romania, where these artifacts are considered part of the national heritage.