Kathmandu. A 13th-century Shakyamuni Buddha statue that was smuggled into the United States by thieves has been duly restored at the local Nhuchchewal.

Recently, the statue has been restored there in coordination with Kathmandu Metropolitan City, Department of Archeology and Heritage Engineer.

According to Archeology Officer Sarita Subedi, after the stolen statue was found in America, the Department of Archeology coordinated with Tibet House Collection in America and brought it back to Nepal. The statue in a museum in America was brought to Nepal with the cooperation of the government, various organizations, scholars and indigenous and foreign heritage activists.

The statue, which reflects a calm and gentle spirit, is believed to have been built in the 13th century. This property, which is considered important from the archaeological and cultural point of view, is considered to be the best example of art, culture and sculpture of the time.