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When Italy gave back Ethiopia鈥檚 stolen obelisk

In 2005, the Obelisk of Axum was returned to Ethiopia nearly 70 years after being looted by Italy's fascist dictator Benito Mussolini.

In 2005, the pieces of an ancient monument were flown back to Ethiopia, having been stolen by Italy.

The Obelisk of Axum, built around 1,700 years ago, was 24-metres (78 feet) high and weighed around 160 tons.

It was looted from Ethiopia on the orders of fascist dictator Benito Mussolini.

He had it re-erected in Rome outside the former Ministry of the Colonies building near Circus Maximus.

Despite a pledge to the United Nations in 1947 to return all plundered goods, it took nearly 60 years for Italy to return the stele.

Architect Michele Daniele was one of those involved in dismantling, transporting and re-erecting the tower.

He tells Vicky Farncombe about the 鈥渉ardest days鈥 of his career.

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(Photo: The Obelisk of Axum being re-erected in Ethiopia. Credit: Getty Images)

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