Clérigos Tower

The Clérigos Tower and Church are among Porto’s most remarkable landmarks and an essential part of the city’s identity. Designed by Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni in the 18th century, the Baroque-style church is admired for its elegant façade and richly decorated interior.

Rising beside it, the Clérigos Tower dominates Porto’s skyline with its slender silhouette, visible from many parts of the city. Visitors can climb its 200 steps for breathtaking panoramic views over the historic center and the Douro River. Together, the church and tower form one of Porto’s most visited monuments and an unmissable stop on any city tour.

The Clérigos Tower was completed in 1763 as part of the Clérigos Church, a project commissioned by the Brotherhood of the Poor Clerics. Its architect, Nicolau Nasoni, was responsible for several important works in Portugal. The tower was designed in the Baroque style, combining functionality, grandeur, and artistic ornamentation.

Originally, it served both as the church’s bell tower and as a landmark for sailors navigating the Douro River. Over the centuries, the tower has become a symbol of faith, architecture, and the enduring spirit of Porto.

The Clérigos Tower rises 75 meters high, making it one of the tallest historic structures in Porto. Built in granite, it is characterized by its vertical design, with curved lines, balustrades, and ornate reliefs. The 225 spiral steps lead to the top viewpoint, offering one of the most stunning panoramas of Porto — including the Douro River, Vila Nova de Gaia, and the Boavista area.

With its harmonious proportions and delicate stonework, the Clérigos Tower stands as one of the finest examples of Portuguese Baroque architecture.

Part of the same complex is the Clérigos Church, also designed by Nicolau Nasoni. With an oval floor plan — the first of its kind in Portugal — the church is remarkable for its richly decorated altar, gilded woodwork ceiling, and religious sculptures. Visitors can access the church interior free of charge, offering a unique opportunity to experience sacred art and the spiritual atmosphere of this historic site.

Yes, absolutely! Climbing the 225 steps to the top is one of Porto’s most memorable experiences. Along the way, small windows offer partial views and resting points. At the summit, the panoramic view is breathtaking, especially at sunset. Be ready to capture stunning photos of the Porto Cathedral, the Luís I Bridge, and the entire riverside area down to the Douro.

For those with reduced mobility or who prefer not to climb, there is an interactive multisensory experience on the ground floor. This space simulates the climb with images, sounds, and explanations available in several languages. It is an inclusive innovation that ensures everyone can enjoy the feeling of “seeing” Porto from above.

The Clérigos Tower, one of Porto’s most visited monuments, is open every day of the year. Tickets include discounts for youth, seniors, families, and Porto Card holders, making the visit even more worthwhile.

The Clérigos Tower plays an active role in Porto’s cultural life. Throughout the year, it hosts:

• Themed illuminations during Christmas, São João, and special events
• Multimedia projections mapped onto the church’s façade
• Concerts and recitals inside the church, taking advantage of its unique acoustics
• Night visits, offering breathtaking views of the illuminated city

Among the most impactful cultural events at the Clérigos Tower is Spiritus, an immersive video mapping and light show that transforms the interior of the Clérigos Church into a universe of visual and sound art.

Located in the heart of Porto, the tower is easily accessible: