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Kirkwall

General Info

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CityKirkwall
Area/RegionOrkney Islands
CountryScotland
Website-
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Longitude[object Object]
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Location NameKirkwall
Alternate Name-
Street Address-
Kirkwall, often referred to as the 'City of Chains', is the main hub of Free Marching activity. The city has a storied history as a former major slave trading center for the Tevinter Empire. Kirkwall's unique landscape consists of majestic, tall structures and narrow, winding lanes. The statue of the Tevinter Magister towering over the city is a stark reminder of its dark past. Despite its troubled history, Kirkwall remains a bustling metropolis, famous for its bustling market towns and the magnificent Gallows, once the site of the city's Magi Circle and now a permanent symbol of Templar rule. Dark but powerful, Kirkwall beckons everyone with adventure, intrigue and the chance to change history.

Overview

Located on the east coast of the Free Marches, Kirkwall is a city of contrasts. At the center of an extensive shopping network, it boasts a bustling market and a harbor that is constantly full of merchant ships. Wealthy nobles and successful businessmen live in luxury in Hightown, while Lowtown reigns in poverty, crime, and disorder among both elves and humans.
But it is more than just a place of commerce and inequality. Built on the ruins of the Tevinter Empire, Kirkwall holds a treasure trove of ancient secrets. Formerly a slave estate, the imposing Gallows looms over the city as a stark reminder of the city's dark history and current struggles with Templar mages.

In addition, the city's church greatly influences daily life by strictly enforcing the Chant of Light, creating further tension between magic users and non-believers. The alienation that inhabits the city elves adds another layer of cultural diversity even as they engage in struggle and resistance.
Despite its difficulties, Kirkwall is not without its charms. Unique architecture, azure seaports and the enchanting Costa Ferita attract adventurers, scientists and heroes in search of fortune, knowledge or redemption. Although life in Kirkwall is far from easy, it is a melting pot of opportunity, grim reality, mystery and history waiting to be discovered. Discover the history of Kirkwall, where every corner whispers a piece of the wonderful continent of Theda's history.

History

Central to the Dragon Age universe, Kirkwall's history is as complex and confusing as the city itself. Also known as the "City of Chains", Kirkwall was originally founded as the center of the Tevinter Imperium's vast slave trade, a dark mark that still shadows its history.
The city's role changed dramatically after the fall of the Tevinter Empire when it was conquered by the church at the end of the Ascension Age. The church fortress "Kardaues" was once an important prison for slaves, but was later converted into a prison-like circle of the Magi, demonstrating the transition from physical to magical slavery.
Kirkwall's strategic position on the Waking Sea made it a commercial center. The city continued to prosper under Orles during the Steel Age. Although ostensibly independent, the lords of Kirkwall often worked closely with the nobles of Orles, sometimes with tragic consequences, such as during the infamous rebellion led by Tyrn Loghain.
The city's rich history is perhaps most dramatically defined by the fifth plague. The massive influx of refugees from Ferelden fleeing the spreading scourge has caused not only economic and social strife, but also chaos and strife. From the rise of the tyranny of Knights Templar Commander Meredith to the subsequent Wizarding Rebellion led by the enigmatic Falco, Kirkwall has been the epicenter of major events that have rocked the world of the Dragon Age. In addition, Kirkwall's ancient architecture, hidden dwarven tunnels, and demonic mysteries such as the infamous magical blood sacrifices kept the city shrouded in an aura of intrigue and mystery. This labyrinth of glorious and terrible secrets combine to make Kirkwall an unforgettable landmark in the Dragon Age universe.

Background

Known as the 'City of Chains', Kirkwall is steeped in a history of struggle, politics and change. In ancient times, the city was the main center of the empire's slave trade, and many slaves traveled through the heartland and were sold throughout Theda. But in this bleak past, Kirkwall has always been a symbol of survival and resilience.
The city changed dramatically when it was conquered by the Tevinter Empire, who built massive city walls and the impressive Upper City building. It was during these years that the city received an unforgettable nickname. The poor and downtrodden still referred to places like Darktown by this name, a stark reminder of the city's past, which still left an indelible mark on its landscape and people.
In the Dragon Age, Kirkwall stands as a beacon among the Free Marches. Despite its turbulent history, the city has become one of the most dynamic places in Theda. His influence can be felt from the rich nobles who live in Hightown to the fugitives who gather in Darktown, from the nobles who meet in the Viscount's garden to the secret deals that take place in the shadows of the narrow streets of Lowtown.
The history and influence of the city is enhanced by the Magician's Circle located in Forza. The spooky monument has a bad reputation, but it has also been a landmark for wizards throughout Ted. These powerful wizards wielded incredible power and were often at the center of significant events in Kirkwall, including the wizarding rebellion that changed the status quo in Teds.
Beyond, on the Wounded Shore, the city thrives on the developed trade route that connects the Free Marches to the rest of Thedas. As such, Kirkwall's strategic location and vibrant economy make it a city whose influence reaches far and wide. The past may have been mired in tragedy, but the present and future resonate with strength and ambition, reflecting the spirit of the inhabitants in every stone and leaf that forms the structure. It used to be a city of chains, but now it aspires to be a city of hope, resilience, and maybe even redemption.