During the Middle Ages, lords typically lived in large, fortified residences known as castles. These castles were strategically located on hillsides or near water to provide defense against attacks. The architecture of a castle included thick stone walls, towers, and moats, which made them formidable structures for both protection and residence.
Inside the castle, the lord and his family would occupy the more lavish living quarters, which often included a great hall, private chambers, and storage for food and valuables. The great hall served as the main area for gatherings, feasts, and the conduct of business, showcasing the lord’s wealth and status.
In addition to castles, some lords also managed estates known as manors, which included farmland and peasant housing. While castles were often used for defense and as a symbol of power, manors served as the economic backbone of feudal society, where lords collected rents and provided protection to the peasants living on their land.