Motte-and-bailey castles were usually built by the upper classes of medieval Europe, including the aristocracy, knights and wealthy landowners. They were often used as residences and fortifications to protect against potential threats, such as rival nobles, bandits and hostile invaders. The motte, which was the mound, provided a good vantage point for surveillance and offered a strategic defensive position. The bailey was the enclosed courtyard, often constructed around the base of the motte, and could contain various buildings such as living quarters, kitchens, stables and workshops.