Barrel

What is a Barrel?

A Barrel is a storage block in Minecraft that functions similarly to a Chest but has a unique ability: it can be opened even when a block is placed directly above it. This makes it an efficient storage option in compact builds. Barrels can also serve as job site blocks for Villagers, turning them into Fishermen when assigned.

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Where Can a Barrel Be Found?

Barrels generate naturally in Fishing Cottages in Villages and inside certain structures in Taiga Villages. Players can also craft a Barrel using six Wooden Planks and two Wooden Slabs. Unlike Chests, Barrels do not require adjacent space to open, making them more convenient for storage in tight areas. More details about storage solutions can be found in the Chest article.

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What Can Players Do with a Barrel?

Barrels are mainly used for storage, holding up to 27 item stacks just like a single Chest. Their ability to be opened even when surrounded by blocks makes them ideal for compact bases, underground builds, and decorative furniture. In addition to storage, Barrels also act as workstations for Villagers, assigning the Fisherman profession when a jobless Villager interacts with one. More details about Villager workstations can be found in the Villager Professions article.

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The History of Barrels in Minecraft

Barrels were introduced in Minecraft version 1.14 as part of the Village & Pillage Update. This update overhauled Villager mechanics, introducing new job site blocks, expanded trading, and more interactive Villager behaviors.

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Interesting Fact or Real-Life Connection

In real life, barrels have been used for centuries to store liquids, grains, and other goods. Their compact design allows for efficient stacking and transport, much like how Minecraft Barrels provide space-saving storage solutions in builds.

For further exploration of storage and Villager mechanics, visit the Rusty Ingot knowledge base to learn more about Chests, Shulker Boxes, and Villager Professions.