Seigneurs et bâtisseurs explores the medieval lords and architects who shaped the fortified landscape of the Auvergne region in central France. Drawing on archival sources and archaeological evidence, Bruno Phalip traces the evolution of castle construction from early wooden motte-and-bailey structures to the imposing stone fortresses that dotted the countryside. The study situates these buildings within their broader social, political, and economic contexts, showing how noble families used architecture to assert power, defend territory, and display prestige. Readers gain insight into the daily life of garrisons, the role of chapels and domestic quarters within castle walls, and the ways in which siege technology influenced design changes over centuries. Richly illustrated with plans, photographs, and maps, the volume serves both as a scholarly reference and an accessible guide for anyone interested in the feudal heritage of Auvergne and the enduring legacy of its castles.