TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A delegation from the Wulai Atayal Museum returned to Taiwan on Thursday after conducting a research trip to Europe focused on Indigenous artifacts from Taiwan.

The group visited the Ethnological Museum Berlin, where they examined 10 Atayal textiles dating back over a century. Originally used in local communities, these pieces are now held in European museum collections, according to CNA.

Led by Department Director Siku Yaway (林瑋茜), the delegation included museum staff, cultural workers, and young weavers from New Taipei’s Wulai District. In addition to Berlin, they traveled to Austria’s Weltmuseum Wien to further investigate the condition and historical context of Taiwanese Indigenous artifacts preserved abroad.

According to the New Taipei Indigenous Peoples Department, these overseas artifacts, dating from the late 19th to early 20th centuries, primarily represent the northern Atayal people. During the visit, the team documented textile patterns, captured detailed photographs, took measurements, and reviewed archival materials.

The Atayal people primarily inhabit the mountainous regions of northern and central Taiwan. They are known for their weaving traditions and facial tattooing culture, according to the Council of Indigenous Peoples.

The study is part of ongoing efforts to trace the journey of dispersed cultural objects and support cultural revitalization. Findings from the research will inform future initiatives in textile reproduction and the reconstruction of traditional knowledge.

Looking ahead, the department plans to continue building a database of Wulai Atayal artifacts located overseas, while deepening community involvement and advancing academic research on Indigenous cultural heritage.