Peñafiel Castle

Few fortresses have a silhouette as recognisable as that of Peñafiel Castle. It sits atop a long, narrow outlier hill, and this unusual base has shaped its layout until it resembles a ship anchored on high, its bow pointing towards the Castilian horizon. It is an image that stays with travellers from the moment they approach the town, in the province of Valladolid, and one that alone is reason enough to look up and begin the climb.

The appeal goes beyond the view from outside. Today the castle is home to the Provincial Wine Museum, so a visit combines two experiences that rarely go hand in hand: walking the walls of a historic fortress and delving into the province's winemaking culture. It is a fine example of how a building designed for defence has found a new life serving visitors, without losing the character lent by its setting.

Its heritage value has been recognised for more than a century. In 1917 it was declared a National Monument, which is why it now holds the status of Bien de Interés Cultural (Site of Cultural Interest) in the monument category, the highest level of protection granted to heritage in Spain. The building belongs to Peñafiel Town Council, which has made it one of the town's main attractions.

It is worth setting aside time to enjoy it at a leisurely pace: first, admiring from below the ship-like shape that makes it unique; then, exploring the interior and its museum; and finally, looking out from the top of the hill to understand why this spot was chosen to build a fortress. It is an essential stop for anyone travelling through Castile and León with an interest in history and, while they are at it, in good wine.