Porte du Vin, Concarneau

The Wine Gate
This picturesque little pointed arch figure dates from the 15th century renovation of the Ramparis. The only easy access to the sea was via this gaie shai for all bulky goods, including wine from Bordeaux (hence the name).
Initially the gate was open to the sea, but by the 1st century it could be closed at night by a woven door and later by a portcullis. In the following century it was walled up to prevent surprise attacks. It was back in use during the Revolution.
With the introduction of sardine fishing in the 19th century, the disused sardine fisheries were put under cover during the winter. The quay leading to the Careenage Arca was broken by the late 1920s.

THE WINE TOWER
Also known as the Winegate Tower, this cylindrical tower has a single unwalled loophole, a square embrasure, which allows us to date it to the last quarter of the 15th century.