The winegrowers' houses of Riquewihr are part of traditional Alsace. Their wine cellar is the only part built in solid stone. Half-buried, it occupies a primordial place. Its ceiling is not vaulted but supported by a central pillar. The room is heated all winter to guarantee a constant vinification temperature. Above it, the habitat is made of half-timbered frames. It is often richly adorned with elements displaying the status of the owner of the house.