There are two brooks flowing through the Cerqueux-sous-Passavant: Pont Moreau, originating from Saint Hilaire du Bois; and La Gobetière, origin Saint Paul du Bois.

The commune has increased in size twice, firstly in 1854 at the expense of Saint Paul du Bois and of Cléré sur Layon , and then again in 1861 when it reduced the size of Nueil sur Layon.

The name "Cerqueux sous Passavant" originates from a cemetery of sarcophagus located close to the brook “Le Pont Moreau”.

The faithful were able to pray in the cemetery, located in “Sarcophagi”. During the 11th century, Lord Sigebran of Passavant built a church here, which it entrusted to the monks of the abbey of Saint Jouin de Marnes. The cry of Sigebran "Pass before, the best" was adopted afterwards as a patronymic name and transmitted to the family and estate. It was also at this time that the parish "Sarcophagi" was created, which subsequently became the parish Serqueuils de Passavant in 1594. Its present day name, "Cerqueux sous Passavant", came into effect in 1796.

During the Guerres de Vendée, he troops of General Bonnaire knew that the people of Cerqueux-sous-Passavant had food, and so on 21st January 1794, traveled to Cerqueux so as to lay their hands on it. Once they arrived, they killed the inhabitants and set fire to their houses.

The current church of the Cerqueux-sous-Passavant was built in 1727-1728 on the site of a first church. In 1863, works were carried out in the church thanks to the financial support of the local factory.
A new restoration of the church started in 1928.

The castle of Landes was built in the Middle Ages but only one large ogival gate remains. Strengthened in 16th century during the Hundred Years’ War, this castle was completely rebuilt in 1850.

Today the castle, which cannot be visited, is known to house Bisonland, a park of bisons and fallow deer.

Cerqueux-sous-Passavant is also marked by the legends about fairies. In 3rd, 4th and 5th centuries, colonies of Bretons settled in Cerqueux, bringing with them their beliefs. 
Thus the worship of the fairy "Couarde" was introduced, which means "Witch". She gave her name to a fountain close to the commune. It took several centuries to put an end to these beliefs.
Charlemagne had to prohibit the worship of the fountains and fairies.