Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The church facade displays Nasoni's characteristic frills, garlands, and zigzags. Inside
is an oval-shaped nave built out of granite and marble, but covered with ornate carvings.
See the high altar—a wedding-cake structure with Mary on top—and the tomb of Nasoni,
who asked to be buried here.
The real attraction is going up the tower—one of Porto's icons. After climbing 225
steps and 250 feet up to the top, you're greeted by a jumble of tightly packed red roofs and
commanding views over the city. Nasoni built the tower in six sections, each one more
elaborate than the last, topped with a round dome and spiked with pinnacles.
Nearby:
A fancy bookstore a few blocks away is worth a peek. Built in 1906, the
Lello
&Irmãobookstore
boasts a lacy exterior and a fancy Art Nouveau interior. It looks like
wood, but it's mostly made of painted plaster with gold leaf. Follow the quaint tracks to
the topic trolley. Climb the sagging staircase to a cute tearoom (Mon-Fri 10:00-19:30, Sat
10:00-19:00, closed Sun, Rua das Carmelitas 144).
• Backtrack, crossing Avenida dos Aliados, and continue on to the...
