visit > museums & galleries

National Monument since 1910, the Clérigos Architectural Complex is one of the most important and emblematic of Porto, receiving thousands of tourists every year and delighting again and again those who visit it. Divided into three places – the Tower, the Church and the Museum – you cannot say goodbye to Porto without seeing it.

The Torre dos Clérigos (Clérigos Tower) is a typical calling card of Porto, and its distinction is well deserved. The works were finished in 1763 with the placement of the iron cross at the top and the image of St. Paul in the niche above the door. The project was by Nicolau Nasoni and was presented 10 years earlier. Characterized by the Baroque style, the Tower is over 75 meters high and dazzles for the 360º view it presents over the city – there are 225 steps, but we guarantee that the effort is worth it in the end, especially when we visit in the late afternoon and can enjoy the sunset.

The Museum, on the other hand, promotes a visit to the past. Here, you can visit the Casa do Despacho, the Sala do Cofre, the Cartório and the former Infirmary of the Casa da Irmandade. The collection of Museu dos Clérigos includes cultural assets of artistic value, from the 13th to the 20th century. A function that was lost in time has given way to a museum where we can appreciate Portuguese heritage. Divided into three rooms, the exhibition invites us to take a journey through time, image and place.

The Igreja dos Clérigos (Clérigos Church) is equally important. Also designed by Nicolau Nasoni, it began to be built in 1732, but only in 1749 the works were concluded. Highlighted is the gallery that surrounds the entire nave, the dome that bears the coat of arms of the Irmandade dos Clérigos, and the four side altars: Santíssimo Sacramento, Nossa Senhora das Dores, Santo André Avelino, and São Bento. The Baroque inspiration is obvious, and at the back, the chancel includes a marble altar with a throne crowned by the image of Our Lady of the Assumption. The two Iberian pipe organs, which were only completed in 1777, are the perfect finishing touch to the place.

To visit Clérigos is to enter a journey where modernity and tradition go hand in hand. You won't miss this opportunity, will you?

Cool Tip: Upon registration, there is the option to take a guided tour to the Clérigos Architectural Complex.