A recent restoration effort at the 300-year-old Ermita de Nuestra Señora del Mirón in Soria, Spain, has sparked widespread criticism after historic cherub sculptures were left looking like "cartoon figures".

The restoration, which saw the cherubs painted in white with simplistic features and bright red lips, has been condemned as "disastrous" and an "attack on heritage" by conservationists.

Francisco Manuel Espejo, president of Spain's Conservators and Restorers association, voiced his dismay at the makeover, particularly criticising the bold facial features added to the cherubs. He told The Daily Mail: "Those eyes and painted lips really grab your attention...We are not just talking about a failed restoration, but an attack on our heritage."

Espejo questioned the decision-making process behind such a significant makeover of a listed building dating back to 1725. He said that incidents like this continue to occur despite calls for legislative changes to better protect heritage sites.

The controversy has led to public outrage, with social media users and local residents expressing disbelief and disappointment at the standard of work.

Photos circulating online showed a stark contrast between the church's original decor and its new, brightly coloured interior with cartoon-like cherubs.

A spokesperson for the diocese maintained that all necessary authorisations were obtained for the restoration and noted that tastes differ regarding the outcome. Meanwhile, Soria City Council has yet to respond to the controversy.