Not disputing that grass or communal grazing grounds existed, but the idea of having grass planted around your residence the way we do it today was a practice of elite medieval European landowners.

Soon, though, expansive lawns ensured that all could view European landowners' estates, explains Rooney. To use one's property for aesthetics and leisure, rather than food production, signaled vast amounts of wealth and financial security, says the Washington Post. Even the palace of Versailles boasted a lawn called a "tapis vert," which translates to a green carpet (via Scientific American).

Read More: https://www.grunge.com/846877/the-surprising-history-of-grass-lawns/