The fortified church in Copșa Mare has been managed, maintained, and gradually restored for many years by the German association Pro Groß Kopisch e.V.. The Fortified Churches Foundation has been involved in the conservation of the site since 2017, carrying out smaller construction works and safety interventions. In the spring of 2025, thanks to donations, it was possible to carry out an emergency measure at the supporting wall of the church tower.
Over the course of 2025, the condition of the nave roof covering deteriorated significantly, particularly on the south side. The purpose of the recently carried-out emergency intervention was to repair acute damage and prevent the ingress of rainwater before the winter season. These works mark the completion of the construction interventions for 2025.
Thanks to the long-term commitment of Pro Groß Kopisch e.V. and the initiative of Sabine Reither, the fortified church is, overall, in a well-maintained condition. The load-bearing structure of the nave and choir roof is made of high-quality oak timber, dating from the late 15th to early 16th century, representing a historically significant example of construction techniques. Despite a safety intervention carried out in 2018, the nave roof again shows deterioration in the covering, battens, and some structural details, making a more comprehensive restoration necessary.
Emergency Measures Carried Out
During the recent works, carried out under difficult access conditions, the following interventions were completed:
- Replacement of approximately 250 missing or damaged roof tiles at over 30 affected locations on the central nave, side naves, and the annex of the south entrance;
- Securing and repairing the ridge of the central nave over a length of approximately 2.5 meters, including replacement of damaged ridge tiles and battens;
- Partial replacement of weakened roof battens;
- Cleaning and safety measures in the attic, along the defensive walkway, in the church tower, and in the churchyard;
- Sorting and proper storage of reusable tiles for future rapid interventions.
The works were carried out by the Fortified Churches Foundation. The intervention was fully financed by Pro Groß Kopisch e.V. (Germany), which has long taken responsibility for the fortified church and continuously supports its preservation.
