At 105 Years Old, Epifania Maria de Jesus Mendes Aims for Guinness World Record as Oldest Tattooed Woman
Epifania Maria de Jesus Mendes, a 105-year-old woman from Bahia, Brazil, is setting her sights on the Guinness Book of Records. After celebrating her 105th birthday on April 7, Epifania commemorated the milestone by getting a new tattoo on April 9—a golden key inked on her arm accompanied by the phrase “Only love builds.” This tattoo adds to her unique collection, which already includes a hummingbird on one thigh and a red rose on the other.
Born in 1917, Epifania has led a full life, marrying and raising a large family of 18 children. Today, her extensive family includes grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, totaling over 100 relatives. Her nephew, Engels, a musician residing in Espirito Santo state, supports her passion for tattoos. He recounted that the idea first surfaced on her 90th birthday and has continued since, with subsequent tattoos added at ages 98 and 101.
Despite the family’s concerns about her health and their attempts to dissuade her from getting more tattoos, Epifania remains steadfast. “She scolded me, saying that having given birth to 18 children, getting tattoos was not a big deal,” Engels shared, highlighting her indomitable spirit.
It remains uncertain whether Epifania’s family has officially contacted Guinness World Records to document her achievement. However, Epifania’s story is not just about her quest for a world record but also illustrates her vibrant approach to life and her belief in expressing oneself, no matter the age.
