3 Camino routes renew official certification
In the first half of this year, three routes of the Camino de Santiago had their official certification renewed, following a technical review by the Certification Commission. The decision applies to the Central Route – Alentejo and Ribatejo (managed by the Regional Tourism Board of Alentejo and Ribatejo); the Coastal Route (coordinated by the Regional Tourism Board of Porto and North); and the Interior Route (managed by the Portuguese Federation of the Camino de Santiago).
The renewal was granted based on documentation submitted by each managing body and after verification of compliance with the required criteria for this type of itinerary. The Certification Commission, composed of representatives from Turismo de Portugal (Tourism of Portugal) and from Património Cultural, I.P. (Cultural Heritage, P.A.), assessed elements such as the historical authenticity of the routes, clarity and continuity of signage, safety conditions for pilgrims, sustainability of interventions carried out, and the level of involvement of local communities.
This renewed certification confirms that the three routes continue to meet the established standards and ensures their continued official recognition. The validation allows the entities involved to move forward with promotion, planning, and oversight activities, in coordination with regional and national tourism structures.
In addition to maintaining legal status, the certification strengthens the credibility of these routes among pilgrims, local authorities, and tourism operators. It also supports access to funding, helps consolidate cooperation networks, and contributes to cultural and territorial development strategies.
All three routes are included on the platform Caminhos da Fé (Faith Routes), which brings together information related to the Portuguese religious tourism. Through this portal, users can find details on points of interest, accommodation options, digital content, support services, and practical guidance for those planning to walk any of these certified routes with accurate and reliable information.
