Torre de Clérigos and Igreja dos Clérigos, Porto

The tower on a rainy day

The Torre de Clérigos is one of the most recognizable and highest structures in Porto’s skyline. The 75-meter tall granite tower was constructed in the late-18th century. At that time, it was the highest structure in Portugal.

We didn’t bother climbing the 225 stairs to the top since it was raining and grey, but the tower is supposed to offer the best views in town.

The tower was designed by Nicolau Nasoni, an Italian architect who made Porto his adult home. Nasoni is credited with introducing Baroque architecture to this area in the 18th century.
The tower is based on a Roman Baroque design scheme and topped with a Tuscan bell tower.

Interior

The attached church, Igreja dos Clérigos, was one of the first churches in Portugal to adopt a typical Baroque elliptic floorplan. The marble altarpiece was carved by sculptor Manuel dos Santos Porto.

Main façade

The main façade of the church is adorned with typical Baroque details like garlands, crowns and shells.

The church’s ceiling

This church and tower is considered Nasoni’s masterpiece. He is buried in the church.

Rua Senhor Filipe de Nery, 4050-546 Porto
Open Mon – Sun 9 a.m. – 6.30 p.m.

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