History of Cernache
A town and concelho between 1420 and 1836; foral from Manuel I of 15 September 1514. It was called Sernache dos Alhos because of the quality of its garlic; it also produces the onions sold at the Coimbra fairs. Its millers ground a good part of Coimbra’s grain for centuries. It became a town (vila) again under Law 19-E/2026 of 8 May.
What to see in Cernache
Modern pelourinho
In the triangular square where you leave.
Population and location
According to the 2021 census, the freguesia of Cernache had 3,962 inhabitants in 19.17 km².
The Portuguese Camino in Cernache
Cernache is the end of the Alvorge – Cernache stage and the start of Cernache – Coimbra, the shortest on this section. The old pilgrim albergue closed in 2021; since 2025 the private Albergue Krypteia has been open.
Frequently asked questions
How many albergues are there in Cernache?
This guide lists 1 place to stay for pilgrims in Cernache, with checked prices, beds and seasons.
Which stage of the Portuguese Camino is Cernache on?
It is the end of the Alvorge – Cernache stage (26.1 km / 16.2 miles) and the start of the Cernache – Coimbra stage (11.3 km / 7.0 miles).