Many wine towns, like Riquewihr, are within solid walls. Their winding alleys lead onto nested courtyards. Sometimes a single one brings together several buildings. The stable and the press are then shared between the occupants. The lack of space forces the inhabitants to build in height. The walled projections make it possible to enlarge the living areas. Alsatian villages are sometimes perched on top of a hill or clung to the hillside.