A Lustschloss (French: maison de plaisance, English: pleasure palace) was a small palace in Renaissance and early modern German architecture that served the private pleasure of its owner, usually the ruler of the area it was located in, and was seasonally inhabited as a respite from court ceremonies and state duties. The lustschloss was an architectural type that emerged around 1550. The earliest examples are in Bavaria, but many more will be found across Germany during the late 16th century. They are also common in Austria and Switzerland. Although often described as palaces, they were actually large country houses built in the French style with extensive gardens. Lustschlosses were designed to give their owners privacy and escape from public life. They often had several floors separated by walls with windows, which allowed light into the rooms while keeping out the weather and intruders. Some included underground apartments or corridors for security. There were also theaters, music halls, and other entertainment facilities. Lustschlosses were different from royal residences because they were not used by the king or queen for official business. They were intended to provide relief from such responsibilities as diplomacy, warfare, and administration. However, some rulers did stay in them when they wanted to give orders only to members of their own family or close friends. Lustschlosses can be seen in various towns throughout Germany.