The vihuela is a stringed instrument from Spain, popular during the Renaissance period. It resembles a guitar but has a flat back and a rounded body. Typically, it has six courses of strings, which are pairs of strings tuned in unison or octaves. The vihuela was often used to accompany singing and was favored by composers like Luis de Narváez and Luis de Milán. Vihuelas were made from wood and often featured intricate decorations. They played a significant role in the development of string instruments in Europe, influencing the design of later instruments such as the guitar. Today, the vihuela is still appreciated for its historical significance and unique sound.