Cecilia Giménez, Amateur Restorer Behind Viral 'Ecce Homo,' Dies at 94

Overview

• Borja’s mayor, Eduardo Arilla, and the Santuário da Misericórdia de Borja confirmed her death at age 94, and no cause was disclosed.
• Giménez’s unsanctioned 2012 attempt to restore Elías García Martínez’s early‑20th‑century Ecce Homo drastically altered the image and went viral after widespread media coverage.
• The sanctuary continues to display the work and uses ticket revenue for local causes, helping sustain steady tourism to the town.
• In a public tribute, the sanctuary praised her generosity and noted the affection she earned within the community.
• She later said the sudden fame initially caused severe distress and depression before she came to see the positive impact on Borja.