Who lived in a castle? - Info sheet

Castles, grand structures of historical significance, were primarily the residences of the lord and lady who governed a particular region. These individuals were typically affluent and commanded a large household staff to maintain their lavish lifestyles. Within the walls of a typical castle, one would encounter numerous servants, all of whom played vital roles in the day-to-day operations of the estate. Among these were workers who not only served within the castle but also resided there, including key figures such as the constable. The constable held the crucial responsibility of overseeing the castle's affairs in the absence of the lord.

The running of a castle demanded a variety of everyday tasks, which were carried out by a dedicated cadre of servants. Cooks prepared meals, craftsmen attended to repairs and construction, and spinners worked tirelessly with textiles, all of whom generally lived on the castle grounds. Beyond the castle walls, a different class of workers, known as peasants, dwelt in nearby cottages. These peasants were integral to the castle's sustenance, dedicating their lives to cultivating the land and producing food to support those housed within the fortress. The symbiotic relationship between the castle's inhabitants and the surrounding peasant community was essential to the functioning and prosperity of these medieval strongholds.