A castle was a home

A castles was much more than just a fortress. It was a was a home for its lord, his family and his followers.

Inside the castle walls there might have been a magnificent hall, comfortable chambers and a beautiful chapel.

Larger castles had their own fish ponds, orchards and vineyards, as well as gardens which supplied vegetables and herbs. Cattle sheep and pigs were kept on surrounding farm land.

La grande sala

The great hall was the heart of castle life.

Grand hall in Hedingham castle in Essex

On special occasions magnificent banquets were held here. The lord, his family and important guests sat at the high table, which was raised above the other diners and covered with a table cloth of fine linen.

A banquet

La Cappella

Most castles had a small private chapel near to the lords chambers. The walls were often painted and the windows made from stained glass. It was the castle's most beautiful room. An indication of how important religion was to the owner.

The lord and lady began each day by attending a short service.

La Cucina

Kitchens were built away from the Keep in case they caught fire. Food was cooked on open fires.

Servizi igienici

Castles did not have toilets, instead people sat on wooden seats called 'garderobes'. These were built over a very long chute. Waste from the toilet fell down the chute into the moat.

The garderobes (to 'guard' the 'robes') were so called because people kept their clothes in them. The foul smell kept moths away.

The Well

Almost all castles had a well within their walls. This was essential as a source of water if someone laid siege to the castle.

A castle well as it might have looked