Settlements can both be abandoned and destroyed, though usually it'll take something big for that to happen. The mention about not being able to be reduced beyond a minimum size is only during KOE and pre-launch things. Essentially, it is there to make sure a baron will remain a baron until launch. 'Tis for the same reason that a kingdom cannot be disbanded before launch/beta (i forgot exactly when the limitations will be lifted.)

He was talking about Kingdoms of Elyria. You cant lose your settlements, because you bought them for Release. It would be unfair to lose them before the game launches.

Posted By Termii at 1:15 PM - Sat Feb 25 2017

He was talking about Kingdoms of Elyria. You cant lose your settlements, because you bought them for Release. It would be unfair to lose them before the game launches.

This.

Once the game officially launches however all bets are off.

Best practice would be for someone to take over a settlement. You gain control of the buildings and defenses already in the area without having to spend resources to build them up.

However if you have a small hamlet 3-4 families with just a bare minimum of buildings and an army is pasting by to attack a real target (city or capital) there is no reason a few catapults and soldiers might not break off and burn the entire hamlet to the ground.

Remember if you have a pledge that says you will start as a settlement leader come launch you will still be a leader. Day 2 of launch it's anyone's guess what you will have.