The Brotherhood of Clérigos was born in 1707, resulting from the union of three Brotherhoods of Oporto, to carry out works of mercy and charity. In 1753 the Italian architect Nicolau Nasoni was invited to design and built the new office, the works started in 1754. The Clérigos Tower opened its doors in 1763, becoming the highest bell tower of Portugal, with over 75 metres. In the nineteenth century a mortar war fired from the Tower to announce that it was midday, it also served as a guiding framework for the boats that came to the Douro river and had a commercial telegraph and strategic point for military and political fighting. From the top of the tower we can enjoy a fantastic view of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia, a tour that extends from the river to the sea. Thanks to the genius of Nasoni and passion of the people of Oporto, Clérigos Tower is the foremost undisputed landmark of Porto and a reference in the city’s history.
Learn the history of the Brotherhood of Clérigos and go through the building’s rooms, some open to the public for the first time in 250 years. In the collection of the Brotherhood you can see pieces from the thirteenth to the nineteenth century, in painting, furniture, jewellery, and vestment collections. Don’t forget to visit the Christus exhibition and take a trip through time and space where art and religion complement each other.
Built in the eighteenth century, between 1732 and 1749, the Church of Clérigos is a part of the most emblematic work of the architect Nicolau Nasoni (1691-1773). It’s distinguished by its elliptical nave, and the main altar, in which a polychrome marble throne prevails, crowned by the statue of the patroness, Nossa Senhora da Assunção. Nasoni was able to brilliantly combine granite, marble and gold carving, making the Church of Clérigos, and it’s entire architectural complex, one of the most beautiful temples of baroque feature, and a reference in the history of Porto. Religious ceremonies are still currently being held, as well as cultural events, such as organ, orchestra and choir concerts.