CLERIGOS CHURCH

Built between 1735 and 1748, the Clérgios church has been constructed in a Baroque style of architecture. The Clérgios tower stands on top of the church making it one of the most notable monuments in the city. The complex was commissioned by the Brotherhood of the Clérigos in the Old Town in an area where executed prisoners were buried. 

This is the tallest campanile in the country that stands at a height of almost 76 meters and by climbing around 200 steps to the very top you can enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of the city of Porto from the observation deck here. It was built in the eighth century by the Brotherhood of the Clérigos in the old town on the “hill of the hanged men”, a notorious site where all executed prisoners were brought in to be buried. 

Once at the top of the building, you will come across 49 bells which, when rung together, make a formidable sound. The oval shaped dark granite church is perched atop a high ground and has an elaborate façade with garlands, festoons, and spiral scrolls. The tower had served as an important navigation landmark at the time of its construction for travelers along the River Douro.

Highlights

• Visit this beautiful church and its bell tower comprising 49 bells for one of the best experiences in Porto
• Climb up the 200 steps to the observation deck to enjoy spectacular views over the city and click some interesting photos against a magnificent backdrop 
• Enjoy looking at the other key features of the church such as the marble altar and rococo-inspired altarpiece, two painted wooden sculptures of two of the saints of this Brotherhood
• Take a tour of the Casa da Irmandade which is a fascinating museum that depicts the day to day life of the Brotherhood of the Clerics in the mid-18th century