Vinoble takes place in an absolutely unique setting: a fortress complex built between the XII and XVIII centuries, whose beauty and historic value are in complete harmony with the nobility of the wines being exhibited at the fair. History Professor Alejandro Pérez Ordóñez reveals the story behind the many buildings set within the fortress.

Located in the south-east corner of the walled precinct of the city, an alcázar (Arabic: al qasr – castle or fortress in English) is a collection of buildings surrounded by a wall which served as a seat of political and military power, thus constituting a small town in itself functioning independently of the main walled city.

The Alcázar of Jerez dates from the XII century, when under the control of the Almohade dynasty, “Sharish” became an important city in Al Andalus. Various Islamic parts of the palace and military complex survive, such as the two gateways, the mosque, the baths, the octagonal tower and the pavilion of the Doña Blanca Patio at the foot of the tower. From the later Christian period are the Torre de Homenaje or “homage tower” (late XV century), the Villavicencio Palace and the Olive oil mill (XVIII century).

The Puerta del Campo (gateway to the country) led to the open countryside beyond the city has a more complex design being narrower and having three defensive bends.

The Mezquita (mosque) is a unique space having originally been a small private oratory. It is the only survivor of 18 mosques which once existed in Moorish Jerez. It has a minaret, a patio for ablutions with a central fountain and a prayer hall with a mihrab (a niche oriented towards Mecca). This hall is constructed from brick and is square in plan with an octagonal cupola. Here there is an altar which was installed after the mosque was re-consecrated as a Christian chapel dedicated to Saint Mary.