Cecilia Giménez, the woman who gained global fame for her controversial restoration of a Jesus fresco in Spain, has passed away at 94. Her story began in 2012 when she took it upon herself to restore the painting titled Ecce Homo, which means “Behold the Man” in Latin.
Giménez was a parishioner in Borja, a small town near Zaragoza, where the fresco was located in the Sanctuary of Mercy Church. She believed that the painting, created by artist Elias Garcia Martinez in the 19th century, was in bad shape and decided to help. With permission from the local priest, she attempted to repaint it, leading to an unintentional transformation that resembled a monkey. This blunder quickly went viral, earning the work the nickname “Monkey Christ.”
Eduardo Arilla, the mayor of Borja, confirmed Giménez’s death, describing her as a passionate lover of art. He remembered her for her good intentions and dedication to the church. Despite the initial backlash surrounding her restoration, the event had a surprising positive outcome: Borja, once a quiet town with about 5,000 visitors a year, became a hotspot for tourists. By 2013, over 40,000 people flocked to see the infamous fresco, generating more than €50,000 for charity.
Today, the painting is under glass for protection, attracting 15,000 to 20,000 visitors each year. Giménez didn’t let the controversy define her; after receiving support from the community and gaining international attention, she held an art exhibition featuring her own works.
The impact of her restoration is a reminder of how art can connect people. In a world dominated by social media, Monkey Christ became a meme, strengthening the town’s appeal and sparking discussions about art and preservation. Historians and art critics point out that this incident highlights the risks of amateur restorations, shedding light on the importance of professional preservation in art.
Giménez’s legacy will not be forgotten. As Mayor Arilla said, “Rest in peace, Cecilia; we will always remember you.”
