On August 15, 2025, a pair of Ethiopia’s most iconic fossils—Lucy (also known as Dinknesh) and Selam—embarked on a journey that’s making headlines around the world. For the first time, these ancient hominid remains have left their homeland to be featured in a landmark European exhibition, offering a rare and up-close look at some of humanity’s oldest ancestors. Their destination? The National Museum of the Czech Republic in Prague, where the exhibition, titled Human Origins and Fossils, is set to open on August 25, 2025.
At Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, excitement and a sense of history filled the air as dignitaries gathered to bid farewell to the fossils. Ethiopia’s Tourism Minister, Selamawit Kassa, addressed the crowd at the departure ceremony, which was also attended by Czech Ambassador to Ethiopia, Miroslav Kosek. The Minister’s words captured the significance of the moment: “For decades, Ethiopia has been promoting Lucy to the world; now it’s Lucy’s turn to promote the new Ethiopia to the whole world.” According to FMC, this symbolic reversal marks a new chapter in Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to share its prehistoric heritage with international audiences.
Lucy and Selam are not just any fossils. Discovered in Ethiopia, they are among the oldest known specimens in the field of human evolution research. Lucy, whose scientific name is Australopithecus afarensis, was unearthed in 1974 and has since become a global icon. Selam, another Australopithecus afarensis fossil, is often referred to as “Lucy’s child” and provides crucial insights into the development of early hominids. Their departure marks an extraordinary opportunity for European visitors and researchers, who will be able to view these irreplaceable artifacts firsthand—something that, until now, was possible only in Ethiopia.
The upcoming exhibition in Prague doesn’t stop at fossils. Organizers have planned an array of cultural programs designed to showcase Ethiopia’s diverse heritage. These include business forums, art exhibitions, and events highlighting the nation’s rich history, culture, and natural resources. As officials explained, these initiatives are intended to strengthen Ethiopia’s image abroad and foster a deeper appreciation for its prehistoric legacy. The hope is that visitors will leave with a better understanding of why Ethiopia is often called the “Land of Origins,” a title that reflects its status as the cradle of humankind.
“The exhibition aims to deepen the understanding of Ethiopia as the ‘Land of Origins’ and the cradle of humankind,” said one official, echoing a sentiment that resonates deeply within Ethiopia and among scholars worldwide. The country’s identity as the birthplace of the human race is one of its most renowned global features, and the government has made sustained efforts to promote this image on the international stage. According to FMC, these efforts are not just about national pride—they’re part of a broader strategy to attract tourism, foster cultural exchange, and highlight Ethiopia’s contributions to the story of humanity.
Lucy’s journey from Ethiopia to Europe is more than just a logistical feat. It’s a testament to the enduring allure of our shared human history and the power of scientific discovery to bring people together. For years, Ethiopia has guarded these treasures closely, recognizing their importance not only to the nation but to the world at large. The decision to allow Lucy and Selam to travel abroad reflects a growing confidence in Ethiopia’s ability to share its heritage while ensuring its preservation for future generations.
The significance of the exhibition extends well beyond the museum walls. By presenting Lucy and Selam alongside cultural programs and business forums, Ethiopia is sending a clear message: its past is a vital part of its present and future. This approach recognizes that history and heritage are not static—they are living, evolving forces that can inspire dialogue, innovation, and understanding across borders.
The Czech Republic, for its part, has welcomed the opportunity to host such a prestigious event. Ambassador Miroslav Kosek’s presence at the farewell ceremony underscored the importance of international collaboration in the fields of science, culture, and education. The partnership between Ethiopia and the Czech Republic highlights the value of cross-cultural exchange and the shared responsibility of preserving and celebrating humanity’s ancient roots.
For European researchers and museum-goers, the exhibition offers a chance to see, up close, the fossils that have shaped our understanding of human evolution. Lucy’s skeleton, with its combination of ape-like and human features, has long fascinated scientists and the public alike. Selam, with her remarkably preserved bones, provides additional clues about how our ancestors lived, moved, and developed. Together, they serve as powerful reminders of the long and winding road that led from the earliest hominids to modern humans.
But the exhibition is not just about looking back—it’s also about looking forward. By sharing these treasures with the world, Ethiopia is inviting new generations to engage with the mysteries of our origins. The hope is that the exhibition will spark curiosity, inspire research, and encourage visitors to reflect on their place in the vast tapestry of human history.
As the opening date approaches, anticipation is building in both Ethiopia and the Czech Republic. The exhibition promises to be a highlight of the cultural calendar, drawing visitors from across Europe and beyond. For those lucky enough to attend, it will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience—a chance to stand face-to-face with the distant past and to contemplate the journey that has brought us to the present day.
Lucy and Selam’s European debut is more than a scientific event. It’s a celebration of discovery, a bridge between continents, and a powerful statement about the enduring value of heritage. As Ethiopia continues to promote its identity as the “Land of Origins,” the world is invited to share in the wonder and significance of these ancient fossils—and to recognize the profound connections that unite us all.
