The Clérigos Brotherhood Museum (MIC) operates under the authority of the Brotherhood of Clerics, which is led by a president. The Clérigos Brotherhood is an association of the faithful, founded to carry out works of piety and charity, and its statutes were approved in 1710 by Pope Clement XI. This brotherhood originated from the union of three brotherhoods of secular clergy in Porto: the Confraternity of Our Lady of Mercy of the Poor Clerics (established in 1642), the Brotherhood of Saint Peter “ad Vincula” (established in 1654), and the Congregation of Saint Philip Neri (established in 1666). Today, it is known as the Clérigos Brotherhood.
The Museum is part of the architectural complex of the Clérigos Church and Tower, designed by Nicolau Nasoni, an outstanding landmark of Portuguese Baroque and a defining symbol of the city and the northern region.
The Museum seeks to strengthen its connection with the surrounding area, promoting relationships with the local community, tourists, and researchers, as well as with other cultural and educational institutions.
The Clérigos Tower, Museum, and Church, located in the historic centre of Porto, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, have a direct influence on the Porto Metropolitan Area and an increasing presence at both national and international levels. The complex is a key cultural facility, contributing to the preservation, promotion, and development of the historical, artistic, and architectural heritage of northern Portugal.
The MIC, integrated into the Clérigos Tower complex in Porto, occupies restored spaces within the church and adjoining buildings, enhancing not only the exhibition content but also the architecture of the complex itself, designed by Nicolau Nasoni.
The museum’s collection, which is both diverse and highly significant, is not limited to the heritage of the Brotherhood; it also includes objects, documents and other elements that reflect the history of Porto and its evolution over the centuries. The digitisation of its historical content, available online to all interested audiences, strengthens the relationship between the monument and the city.
The MIC’s programme of temporary exhibitions plays a key role in promoting local culture and in strengthening the international presence of the Porto brand. Many of these exhibitions are dedicated to artists from Porto, with the aim of showcasing their work to a wider audience and enhancing its value, thereby contributing to the global recognition of local talent. These exhibitions not only highlight Porto’s artistic production but also reinforce the city’s cultural identity, celebrating its creativity and its strong connection to the surrounding territory.
In addition to its historical and artistic dimension, the museum stands out for the way it connects past and present, allowing visitors to understand the evolution of the space and its significance for Porto. A visit can be complemented by climbing the Clérigos Tower, which offers one of the most striking views over the city.
Address
Rua S. Filipe Neri, s/n.º4050-546
Porto
Porto
