Viking society was organized around small, rural villages where families worked as farmers, blacksmiths, and craftsmen. Houses were typically longhouses built from timber, with thatched or sod roofs, designed to withstand the Scandinavian climate. Farming was the primary occupation; they grew crops like barley, oats, and rye and raised livestock such as cattle, sheep, and pigs. Many Vikings were skilled seafarers, using their ships for fishing, trading, and exploring far-reaching territories. Social structures revolved around family and clan loyalties, with a culture that emphasized mutual support, hospitality, and respect for tradition. Norse religion was central to their lives, with rituals and festivals honoring gods like Odin and Thor. Viking villages were self-sustaining communities with strong communal bonds, where labor, resources, and responsibilities were shared.