This fortified manor house was built during the first part of the 14th century, probably by Sir Johan Hemmingsson Lejonansikte. By 1346 it is on record as being his manor, "manerium", that is, his main residence. He lived here, with his wife Ingeborg, until they both died from the plague in 1350.
On three sides, the manor is surrounded by a deep moat. The fourth side faces wet marshes. Inside the fortification are the remnants of a large dwelling measuring 10 by 30 meters. Under one part of the house there has been a cellar. Perhaps valuable wines were stored here. The house was built entirely of wood and may have had two storeys. On the top floor the main hall lay where the banquets of the manor were held. Other parts of the house held the living quarters of Sir Johan and his wife. Beside this dwelling, there was a smaller house with a deep cellar. Probably taxes were stored here. The taxes were brought by the peasants and consisted of meat, butter, cheese and vegetables. Several other buildings stood here as well – these were lodgings for the servants, cattle-sheds and stables. Probably the manor also had a wooden fortification to protect it against attacks.
Imagine life as a tenant farmer when Sir Johan was in charge of the land! Taxes were to be paid to the manor, repairs of the buildings had to be done. The 1340 ´s were busy at Fagerhult – what would life have been like for the craftsmen, the servants and for Sir Johan and his family? Imagine the last banquet at the manor, before the Black Death struck.