Whether you live in Porto or are just visiting, it’s almost impossible not to have noticed the imposing Clérigos Tower. Considered one of Porto’s greatest icons, the tower can be seen from different angles and perspectives by anyone strolling through downtown Porto.
For over 260 years, this monument has served almost as a compass for those walking through Invicta, and since December 1996, it has been part of the Historic Center, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the year marking the 30th anniversary of that designation, the Clérigos Tower remains a must-see attraction.
30 October 2026 09:00 + more dates
Torre dos Clérigos
The 10-million milestone and Nasoni’s masterpiece
The Clérigos Tower is one of the city’s most visited monuments—and proof of this is that, in April, the complex reached the milestone of 10 million visitors, recorded since counting began in 2014, following its reopening and the renovation of its visitor experience. Behind this city icon is the Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni, who designed the structure.
It all began in 1731, when the Brotherhood decided to build a new church—which, incidentally, is part of the tour open to the public and stands out as a masterpiece of Portuguese Baroque architecture. The project was entrusted to an Italian architect who had come to Porto to paint the Cathedral. The tower would not be completed until 1763, but it is said that the first Mass was celebrated in the church while construction was still underway, in 1748. Nicolau Nasoni’s connection (and devotion) to the Clérigos complex was so strong that he asked to be buried in the Clérigos Church.
More than 220 steps and a “breathtaking” view of Porto
In Porto, there are viewpoints with breathtaking views—and then there’s the Clérigos Tower. The monument stands 75.6 meters tall, and the climb to the top is via a narrow, spiral staircase with 225 steps spread across six floors.
When you reach the top, looking down may make you a little dizzy, but the 360° view of Porto makes the climb worthwhile. Up there, Porto lies at your feet: the rooftops of Baixa, the Cathedral, the Douro River, and, on the other side, Gaia.
The visit also includes the museum, featuring the Clérigos Brotherhood Collection, the Christus Collection, and temporary exhibitions—not to mention the Clérigos Church, one of the most beautiful in the city of Invicta!
Useful Information
📍Where: Rua de São Filipe de Nery
⏰When: every day, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
🎟️Tickets: adults pay €10; students pay €7; and children 10 and under enter for free
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