The edifices built on the Cluniac domains illustrate a variety of seigneurial dwellings, which, because of their monastic context, are often neglected if not ignored, so far as the order of Cluny is concerned. These buildings constitute véritable seigneurial courts at the head of vast agricultural domains. That function, however, does not suffice as a characterization of the variety of their roles : they are also, as the case may be, important résidences or solidly fortified défense posts. The architectural vestiges are particularly important in the Clunisois, at Bézornay, Mazille and Sercy, which justifies three monographs. Useful comparisons can be made with certain preserved parts of the other nearby deaneries. The analysis highlights some strong traits that distinguish thèse buildings from contemporary lay seigneurial dwellings. Furthermore, the sources, sometimes disappointing for the individual history of the sites, provide a good conduit for understanding the institutional and économie context and help disperse the shadows surrounding the Cluniac domanial System, especially the role played by Hugues de Semur. The gathering together of these data gives a composite picture for the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, a period for which much remains to be done before we can have complète view of the rural seigneurial dwelling.

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