During World War II, the Nazi regime systematically looted art, cultural artifacts, and valuables from occupied territories and Jewish communities. This theft aimed to enrich the Third Reich and erase the cultural heritage of those they targeted. The looted items included paintings, sculptures, and religious artifacts, many of which were taken from museums, galleries, and private collections. After the war, efforts were made to recover these stolen treasures, leading to ongoing discussions about restitution and the rightful ownership of cultural property.