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Ecce Homo Artist Cecilia Giménez Dies at 94

1/2/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Cecilia Giménez, the Spanish artist behind the botched Ecce Homo restoration, died at age 94.
The restoration, nicknamed "Monkey Christ," initially drew ridicule but later became a tourist attraction in Borja, Spain, which inspired a comic opera.
Despite backlash, Giménez faced anxiety and weight loss, with attention boosting her art sales and donations to charity, and the local community embracing her.

History

Historical Context

In 2012, Cecilia Giménez's botched restoration of the Ecce Homo fresco in Borja, Spain, drew global attention, leading to a 30% increase in tourism. Originally painted in 1930 by Elías García Martínez, the restoration was criticized as one of the worst art restorations ever. Despite the controversy, it revitalized local interest in art and sparked discussions about artistic interpretation and community identity.

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Story summary

Cecilia Giménez, the Spanish artist behind the botched Ecce Homo restoration, died at age 94.
The restoration, nicknamed "Monkey Christ," initially drew ridicule but later became a tourist attraction in Borja, Spain, which inspired a comic opera.
Despite backlash, Giménez faced anxiety and weight loss, with attention boosting her art sales and donations to charity, and the local community embracing her.

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