Inside the UK’s oldest manor and more ancient dwellings

Explore Europe's most historic homes

Europe is renowned for its stunning and diverse architecture, but many overlook its historic homes. Constructed more than 500 years old, the oldest residences on the continent are as remarkable as they are fascinating.

From the dry-stone trulli homes of Italy to Spain's ancient cave dwellings, these are Europe's oldest and most captivating residences.

Read on to step back in time and discover the most ancient houses that Europe still has to offer. 

Cramérska huset, Gotland, Sweden

The town of Visby is located on the Swedish island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea and is known for its well-preserved town wall, centuries-old cathedral and medieval ruins.

In the heart of the town also lies one of Sweden's oldest inhabited houses, Cramérska huset (Cramèr house).

Cramérska huset, Gotland, Sweden

The medieval residence dates back to the 13th century and is as quaint as it is historic. With its rugged exterior walls, pretty yellow window frames and high, pitched roof, it is a very traditional piece of local architecture.

As well as being pretty, the house boasts a fascinating history, all thanks to one notorious man. Swedish archaeologist, Ragnar Engeström, bought the property in 1971.

Cramérska huset, Gotland, Sweden

Engeström had a photographic memory and spent years determining the age of the many historic buildings in Visby. He was said to know everything about Gotland, but few knew his true nature. From a young age, he had a passion for antiquities and reportedly committed his first theft when he was just 13 years old.

Engeström had befriended a local coin dealer, who “let him come and go as he pleased”. Little did the dealer know that Engeström was stealing from him every Thursday when visiting the Royal Coin Cabinet. He was eventually caught but, considering his young age, the thief faced no consequences.

Cramérska huset, Gotland, Sweden

Later, while working for the National Antiquities Office's Gotland Surveys, Engeström visited numerous museums, mansions and churches. With access to their collections, he began stealing everything from furniture to artworks. In 1971, he bought Cramér house, which would have highlighted his wealth and status – although few knew his prosperity had come from stolen property.

This is where much of Engeström’s stolen goods ended up. Eventually, the prolific larcenist was caught, but he resided in Cramérska huset until 1997. Two years later, he was sentenced for his crimes.

Wooden houses of Genthof and Kortewinkel, Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is one of Europe's best-preserved cities and it's also one of the prettiest. The capital of West Flanders in northwest Belgium, this enchanting city is defined by its idyllic canals, cobbled streets, grand squares and stunning medieval buildings.

In fact, Bruges is all about architecture and on the streets of Genthof and Kortewinkel you’ll discover two authentic medieval wooden homes that have, rather remarkably, stood the test of time.

Wooden houses of Genthof and Kortewinkel, Bruges, Belgium

Both of the skinny, imposing structures benefit from an all-wood façade and were built in the 15th century. Their upper storeys project further forward than the buildings next door. This is said to have helped with water damage, allowing the rain to fall off their sloping roofs and onto the ground below.

The townhouse, pictured here, is also known as Genthof 7 and features a striking late Gothic gable and wind vale.

Wooden houses of Genthof and Kortewinkel, Bruges, Belgium

Since the 13th century, Bruges has had regulations in place to help prevent fires from breaking out within its buildings, but it wasn't until the 17th century that wooden houses were officially banned.

With wood being extremely flammable, timber properties posed a great threat to the city's many historic buildings.

Wooden houses of Genthof and Kortewinkel, Bruges, Belgium

Over the centuries, hundreds of these gorgeous structures have decayed, or been dismantled and replaced. Fortunately, though, these two heritage homes have survived and now have preserved status.

With their deep black finishes, pretty windows and unique architectural details, the wooden houses of Genthof and Kortewinkel are fine examples of medieval Belgium architecture.

Barrio de Cuevas cave houses, Granada, Spain

The city of Guadix is one of the oldest settlements in Spain, with many believing that Julius Caesar himself founded the Roman column of Guadix in 45 BC. It was an important city during the Roman Empire and coins of several emperors, including Caesar Augustus and Tiberius, have been discovered here.

The city is also renowned for its ancient cave homes, that litter the Barrio de Cuevas neighbourhood. In fact, the area is thought to hold the largest number of cave houses in the world. There are about 2,000 in total and around 3,000 people call them home.

Barrio de Cuevas cave houses, Granada, Spain

Some of the oldest caves here are believed to have been built by the Moors, who ruled Andalucía from the 8th to the 15th centuries. They date back around 1,000 years, although some were constructed during the 15th and 16th centuries, too. The caves were used for storing grain and animals, but during a time of great conflict, families took refuge in the caves and realised how comfortable they were for living.

Due to their placement inside natural rock, the inside of the dwellings are protected from the sun's harsh rays. Inside, the caves retain a temperature of between 18°C (64°F) and 20°C (68°F), no matter what the weather is doing outside.

Barrio de Cuevas cave houses, Granada, Spain

Keen tourists can also stay in an ancient troglodyte home since many are listed on Airbnb. This cave rental property lies in the heart of Barrio de Cuevas and measures just 861 square feet (80sqm), accommodating up to four people.

Barrio de Cuevas cave houses, Granada, Spain

Inside, the cave home is cosy and compact, with rustic walls and ceilings, tiled floors and built-in furnishings. There's a kitchen, a sitting area, a dining space and two bedrooms, as well as a family bathroom.

Outside, a terrace offers panoramic views of the city, including the Alcazaba – a 10th-century fortress – and cathedral, which blends several architectural styles from Gothic to baroque.

Hotel Schiefes Haus, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Located in the German city of Ulm, which is known for its early Renaissance and Gothic architecture, this stunning former townhouse is named Schiefes Haus, which translates to 'crooked house'.

The structure dates back to 1406 and today, it's the most photographed structure in the city.

Hotel Schiefes Haus, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

So, how did the house become so wonky? Well, in 1443 it was extended in the late Gothic style. While the north wall sat on steady gravel, the south wall was positioned on less firm ground.

As the foundations on this weaker side slowly gave way, the property began to sink, resulting in its now iconic tilt.

Hotel Schiefes Haus, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

To save it from further decline, the house was supported by three structural columns and the wooden south wall was replaced by stone in the mid-17th century.

Despite these efforts, Schiefes Haus has continued to shift on the south side, likely due to moisture issues, as well as the extreme weight of the first floor, which was filled up to counterbalance the tilt.

Hotel Schiefes Haus, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

The wonderful wonky property was last restored in 1994-1995, but no doubt more maintenance will be needed in the future.

The task of conserving the slowly sinking structure is in the hands of the owners, who operate the former private home as a popular hotel. According to its website, Schiefes Haus still "brings across the history of the building thanks to both the retention of the tilted floors and minimized visibility of modern technology" while offering modern comforts.

Kirkjubøargarður, Faroe Islands, Denmark

Sandwiched between rugged cliffs and a breathtaking fjord, Kirkjubøur is the southernmost village on Streymoy, the largest and most populated of the Faroe Islands.

Here, in this enchanting Danish village, you'll find Kirkjubøargarður, a 900-year-old log house that has been the shelter of local farmers for centuries.

Kirkjubøargarður, Faroe Islands, Denmark

Also known as King's Farm, Kirkjubøargarður is considered one of the oldest still inhabited wooden houses in the world. The farmhouse is thought to date back to the 11th century and was even used as a church and seminary for the catholic bishops of the Faroe Islands, from about 1100.

Legend has it that the wood used to construct the turf-covered house was actually driftwood from Norway.

Kirkjubøargarður, Faroe Islands, Denmark

Most of the ancient building is occupied by the Patursson family. Since the structure is owned by the Faroese government, the family has leased the building since 1550. In fact, the 17th generation of the Paturssons currently lives here, running the farm.

Kirkjubøargarður, Faroe Islands, Denmark

However, the oldest part of the property, known as Roykstovan, has been opened to the public as a unique museum.

This parlour (or smoke room) allows locals and visitors to step inside and take in the ancient timber rafters and beams that make up the structure.

Saltford Manor House, Somerset, UK

As beautiful as it is historic, Saltford Manor House is thought to be the oldest continuously occupied private house in England. The Grade II listed building has Norman origins and according to architectural historian, John Goodall, was built in 1150, or possibly 1148.

It is also entirely possible that the site was used as a residence when the Romans ruled Britain, so it's no wonder that the manor has been on the National Heritage List for England since 1950.

Saltford Manor House, Somerset, UK

The impressive home was constructed during the medieval period on the Earls of Gloucester's estate, but it is thought that a tenant constructed the building.

Later, it was owned by Frenchman, Geoffrey de Montbray, the Bishop of Coutances, who was a close confidant of William the Conqueror. Geoffrey was present at the Battle of Hastings and even attended the coronation of William the Conqueror in 1066.

Saltford Manor House, Somerset, UK

The house passed through numerous owners before it was acquired by the Duke of Chandos in the late 1700s. It was then purchased by the Flower family, who owned the property until the late 19th century, when it was sold to a local farming couple.

The manor fell into a state of disrepair during the early 20th century but was eventually bought and renovated by James and Anna Wynn, who snapped it up in 1997 for £290,000 ($383k). The duo ended up offloading the manor in 2010 for £1.3 million ($1.7m) – an impressive profit!

Saltford Manor House, Somerset, UK

Like many ancient houses, the manor has undergone many changes over the years. Besides its Norman features, which include a window in the master bedroom that closely resembles one in Hereford Cathedral, the house has 13th-century wall paintings, considered to be the oldest surviving medieval frescos in England.

There's also a Tudor fireplace and a 17th-century kitchen, as well as a window with traces of a medieval decorative painting, most likely from the 14th century. Discover more about the building's history via Saltford Environment Group.

Das Alte Haus, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany

Aptly named, Das Alte Haus (The Old House) lies in the German town of Bacharach and is thought to be one of the most famous medieval, half-timbered homes on the Rhine.

According to the inscription on the house, it dates back to 1368, while a dendroecological examination, undertaken by the University of Innsbruck in 2005, found the striking property to be around 600 years old, making it one of the oldest wooden house in North Tyrol.

Das Alte Haus, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany

While the majority of similar buildings in the town were destroyed by a series of fires at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, Das Alte Haus has been lovingly preserved and is still rich in character. It has a high pitched roof, deep red timber panelling, four gables, corner towers and rococo doors.

Throughout the centuries, the property has been constantly inhabited by hard-working mountain farmers and even today, Das Alte Haus is the full-time home to a family of artists. As such, it's full of paintings, photographs and sculptures.

Das Alte Haus, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany

Although the house is inhabited, it is also open to visitors upon request. Lucky guests can step inside the ancient property and take in its wonderfully preserved interiors. The current owners have tried to retain the house “as an anchor that connects us to our ancestors".

Das Alte Haus, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany

Furthermore, part of the house has been turned into a dedicated exhibition space and is filled with Stone Age artefacts, made of mountain crystal. These remarkable items were processed almost 10,000 years ago, at a time when there were no houses at all in Europe.

Casa and Torre de los Lujanes, Madrid, Spain

Plaza de la Villa is one of the finest urban squares in Madrid, Spain. Home to some of the city's best-preserved historical monuments, the square houses some of the oldest buildings still standing in Madrid, including Casa de Cisneros and the old city hall, Casa de la Villa de Madrid.

However, it is Casa and Torre de los Lujanes that enjoys the title of the oldest preserved house in Madrid.

Casa and Torre de los Lujanes, Madrid, Spain

The house and tower date back to the 15th century and for 200 years, served as the home of different generations of the Luján family. While the house was a home, the adjoining tower was originally part of the city’s defensive medieval castle.

According to Madrid’s official tourism website, legend has it that King Francis I of France was imprisoned in the tower, after being captured during the Battle of Pavia in 1525. Although other sources state that the King was simply staying there.

Casa and Torre de los Lujanes, Madrid, Spain

Folklore suggests that when the king of France refused to bow to Carlos V (Charles I of Spain) to show respect, the Spanish king had the door to the tower lowered to force King Francis to bend over, effectively bowing, as he entered.

The property was designed in the Mudéjar style, which is an Islamic-influenced style of architecture that became popular in Spain around the 12th century. From Gothic details to coats of arms, the property is an eclectic mix of styles.

Casa and Torre de los Lujanes, Madrid, Spain

Amazingly, the property was once one of the tallest buildings in Madrid and since 1866, it has been the headquarters of the Royal Academy of Moral and Political Sciences. Although not open to the public, visitors to the city can admire it from the square.

Haus Bethlehem, Schwyz, Switzerland

Bethlehem House is situated in the Swiss canton of Schwyz and is considered to be the oldest timber house in all of Europe.

It was constructed in 1287, four years before activists signed the Federal Charter, the country's founding document, creating modern-day Switzerland.

Haus Bethlehem, Schwyz, Switzerland

Amazingly, the ancient property is still in remarkably good condition. Its exterior is characterised by its dark wooden panels, bright white render, small windows and sloping roof.

Haus Bethlehem, Schwyz, Switzerland

The historic property was renovated in the middle of the 16th century, during which the wooden structure was raised and a cellar hall was installed, complete with murals.

In the 18th century, the house was turned into two apartments and the windows were enlarged and pulley shutters added.

Haus Bethlehem, Schwyz, Switzerland

Since 1982, Bethlehem House has belonged to the Ital Reding-Haus Foundation, as part of the Museum Ital Reding-Hofstatt. It is open to the public, who can step inside to take in the building's remarkable architectural features.

The walled Ital Reding estate is also home to an early 17th-century manor house, a baroque garden and a farm building, which today is the Cantonal Library.

Berghof, Vienna, Austria

Berghof, also known as Pfarrplatz 5, lies in the 19th district of Vienna, Austria, and was built in around 1180. It served the Klosterneuburg Monastery, becoming a home and workplace for important catholic figures in the area.

Berghof, Vienna, Austria

The property underwent a baroque renovation at the end of the 17th century and in 1711, Provost Ernest Perger had the Prelates' Hall decorated with high-quality stucco work and an elaborate painted ceiling.

Then, in 1781, Johann Baptist Burger discovered a mineral spring near the house, which he expanded into a spa. Here, locals could come and bathe, enjoying the region's natural therapeutic waters.

Berghof, Vienna, Austria

Sadly, the spa was destroyed during a French invasion, but it was rebuilt in 1811 by the Woller family. Later, in the 1870s, the Prelate's Hall became a billiards room, while the adjacent club room was used for playing cards.

By the 1900s the building was abandoned and fell into a state of disrepair, until Michael Reinprecht purchased it in 1988 and began an extensive restoration.

Berghof, Vienna, Austria

Today, Berghof is home to Vienna’s oldest restaurant – Pfarrwirt – where traditional food and drink can be savoured.

Even though the building has undergone numerous changes and renovations over the decades, it still stands in the same spot today as it did hundreds of years ago. The famous red chalk drawings next to the entrance date back to the 15th century and are regarded as being highly unique in Vienna.

The trulli of Alberobello, Apulia, Italy

Throughout Italy's Apulia region – also known locally as Puglia  you'll find ancient, conical homes. While many now sit in ruin, the ones that line the hilly streets of Alberobello have been lovingly preserved.

Known as trulli, these limestone dwellings are a remarkable example of corbelled dry-stone construction, a prehistoric building technique still used in this region today.

The trulli of Alberobello, Apulia, Italy

It is thought that trulli homes date back as early as the mid-14th century and in Alberobello, you'll find roughly 1,500 of them packed into the cobbled lanes of the districts of Rione Monti and Rione Aia Piccola.

Trulli were generally constructed as permanent dwellings by small-scale landowners or agricultural labourers, while others were built as field shelters or storage spaces. Today, many remain homes, while others are utilised as shops, restaurants and even boutique hotels.

The trulli of Alberobello, Apulia, Italy

The quirky properties, defined by their pretty corbelled roofs, were introduced to Italy by the Messapians, an ancient tribe that settled in the region during the Iron Age.

Although no one knows for sure when the first trulli were built, most historians agree the oldest are around several thousand years old.

The trulli of Alberobello, Apulia, Italy

The master builders who constructed these beautiful drywall (mortarless) homes would have collected boulders from nearby fields to create the subfloor, before using local limestone excavated on site, along with soil and water, to build up the walls.

What's remarkable about the ones that remain in Alberobello is how well preserved they are. So, it really isn't surprising that the area is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Crooked House, Suffolk, UK

The scenic English village of Lavenham in Suffolk is brimming with striking, half-timbered medieval cottages – many of them wonky and painted in bold hues.

During the 14th and 15th centuries, Lavenham was one of the richest places in the country, thanks to the wool trade. Wealthy merchants built homes here, using green wood that hadn't been properly dried.

The Crooked House, Suffolk, UK

As the timber dried, the homes began to warp and shift. By this time, the wool industry was in decline and the merchants were unable to afford the necessary repair works.

The result? A village full of wonderfully wonky historic homes. The Crooked House is by far the most famous of them all.

The Crooked House, Suffolk, UK

As iconic as it is historic, the property is one of the world’s most photographed homes and was built in 1395, as part of a grand hall house for a wealthy wool merchant.

It's thought that it was the inspiration behind the old English nursery rhyme, ‘There was a Crooked Man’, and over the past 600 years, has hosted various important figures, including Queen Elizabeth I and John Lennon.

The Crooked House, Suffolk, UK

The iconic property was bought by Alex and Oli, AKA the Crooked Men, in 2020. The pair had visited the building in 2018 when it was a tea room and immediately fell in love. Two years later, when the house was listed for sale, the couple snapped it up.

They spent the next 18 months restoring it and now host immersive tours and black tie dinners at the property, using the income raised to further repair the important British building.