Sitting resplendently in Castile and León, Spain, Peñafiel - homeland to the iconic Peñafiel Castle and its medieval 'Plaza del Coso' - is a town marked by venting chimneys, dispersing gases from wine fermentation. The year 2006 saw a population of approximately 5,434 inhabitants. As a key player in the Middle Ages, Peñafiel could boast up to 19 churches. The Spanish Rail System expansion sparked growth, reaching wheat distribution, and spawned three factories for flour production. This expansion did not, however, serve to develop animal husbandry in the region.
'Peñafiel', meaning 'the loyal Rock' or 'Mountain', is a nod to the Latin name 'Pinna Fidelis'. The Peñafiel Castle now houses the Wine Museum of Valladolid, and a myriad of wineries surround the town, placing it at the heart of the Wine Region of Ribera del Duero.
Below the castle, but above the town, many wine caves were built. The mountain contains tens of such caves, some of which are as large as 200 metres (660 ft). Many wineries are located near Peñafiel, and guided winery visits in La Ribera del Duero are a growing tourist activity.
Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons
Written by Nicolo Ciampini
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