Viking Longhouses

Most Viking families lived in a one-roomed longhouse, with the whole family sleeping, eating and working in one place. Multiple families lived in these Longhouses The family longhouse was where Vikings spent most of their time. There was space for sitting, sleeping, cooking and for leisure activities such as story-telling around the fire. Viking homes were long rectangular buildings

How it was built Longhouses were usually made of wood with stone footings as a base. The roof was usually made from turf, which could be replaced periodically. The roof of the longhouse had a hole, through which smoke from the central fire, which was used for cooking and as a source of heat, could escape

Life in the Longhouse The main living area of the longhouse was around the fire. Around the outside of the room were benches, covered in animal fur or skin, to provide extra warmth and comfort. The only light came from the door, roof opening and the fire.  The poorest families shared their living quarters with the family’s animals.

Outside the Longhouse Most families had access to at least a small yard, where animals and non-perishable belongings could be kept The majority of longhouses were grouped together, probably to provide protection in an uncertain and often violent age.