Cecilia Giménez, the Elderly Artist Behind Borja's Viral 'Monkey Christ' Fresco, Dies at 94
Cecilia Giménez, a 94-year-old parishioner from Borja, Spain, has died. She was known for her 2012 attempt to restore the Ecce Homo fresco in the Sanctuary of Mercy Church, an effort that unexpectedly went viral and earned the artwork the nickname "Monkey Christ." The fresco had been painted by 19th-century artist Elias Garcia Martinez and stood in the church for over a century.
Borja's mayor, Eduardo Arilla, confirmed Giménez's death on Facebook, praising her lifelong passion for painting and noting the tributes related to the 2012 restoration incident. The event notably boosted tourism in Borja, increasing annual visitors from about 5,000 to over 40,000 by 2013. Charitable funds connected to the site exceeded €50,000 at that time. Currently, the painting attracts around 15,000 to 20,000 visitors each year and is now protected behind glass.
Beyond the fresco, Giménez held an exhibition of 28 of her own paintings, which received support from both locals and others. The mayor lauded her generosity and dedication to the church, highlighting her enduring contributions to the community.
