Description:
The small medieval church of Szamosújlak was built in the early 15th century as a Catholic church. It was enlarged in the early 16th century, when a new presbytery was constructed. When the population of the village was converted to the Reformed religion in the mid 16th century, the church was altered to conform it, the n became Catholic again until the second half of the 17th century when it was finally taken over by the Reformed faith. Major changes and repairs to its building followed after that until it was seriously damaged by fire in 1865. It was reconstructed and, although renovated twice since, was in critical condition. Historical research began in 1990, determining the different construction phases and later modifications. It became clear that the original medieval setting could not be fully restored. The renovation thus preserved the 18th century church, whilst all medieval remains were harmoniously incorporated to illustrate the history of the building. The roof, being a poor replacement of the original, was completely rebuilt in order to combine the best of both periods. The exterior with its white painted brick walls and heavy buttresses, has definitely re-established its medieval character, enhanced by the renovation of its surroundings.