Spanish artist accused of damaging historic temple in Taipei

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — A 53-year-old Spanish man surnamed Fang, working in the art field, was charged with damaging a cultural heritage site on Monday (Aug. 14).

After getting drunk in the early hours, Fang passed by the Shilin Cixian Temple in Taipei City's Shilin District, well-known as Shihlin Matzu Temple, where he used rags, rosin oil, and oil dissolvers to clean the temple door, unintentionally damaging the historic monument's painted images.

Notified police took Fang into custody for questioning, where he claimed he was merely trying to help clean and was unaware the temple was a protected landmark. The Shilin Cixian Temple, over 150 years old, is recognized as a Level-3 Municipal Heritage Site in Taipei City.

Fang, a professional artist of Spanish origin, had previously participated in restoration and painting projects at other temples.