Skellige Isles

As a faction, the Skellige Islands are a cultural jewel in the Witcher universe. This tight-knit society, bound by blood and traditional rituals, is proud, resilient and fiercely independent. Living in the harsh conditions of an archipelago in the Great Sea, the Skelligers made a necessity. They became skilled sailors unmatched in navigating treacherous waters, making them formidable opponents in naval warfare.

Life in Skellige is not easy, with dangerous wildlife, complicated politics and changeable weather. However, residents face these challenges head on and weave them into their folklore and everyday life. Horrifying wraiths, powerful frost giants, and treacherous spirits oppose each other with courage, determination, and undying faith in their clans and gods. Devotion to ancient customs and worship of the island's deities fosters a sense of mysticism not seen anywhere else in the world.

Politically, Skellige's democracy stands out among continental monarchies. Reigning monarchs are elected by popular vote, a practice that fuels turbulent, often violent domestic politics. But it also separates the weak from the strong in a way that creates a hardened and powerful ruler. At its core, Skellige is a wild joke of dangerous beauty and deadly subtlety, the epitome of the raw, wild spirit of its people.

A collection of rugged and rugged islands in the western seas of the mainland, the Skellige Islands have a history steeped in tradition and conflict. Often referred to as the Isles, Skellige has always been known for its brave and formidable warriors who live by ancestral laws that place honor and glory above all else.

The known history of the islands begins with their legendary founder, Hemdal, a warrior so powerful that he was worshiped as a god in Skellige. According to legend, Hemdal united the tribes of the islands into a unified kingdom, turning each tribe into the independent clans we know today. It also initiated the tradition of insular rule: a monarch democratically elected by the jarls, bucking the trend of hereditary rulers across the rest of the continent. Much of Skellige's history is a permanent record of its land raids. Known as exceptional sailors and warriors, the Skelligers took to the seas driven by a desire for wealth and glory. This naval prowess also made them the first line of defense against any naval invasion, and history tells us that many enemies underestimated the islands only to end up at sea.

Of late, Skellige has come under Nilfgaardian influence. This left the clans divided, with some favoring reconciliation over the promise of greater wealth, while others staunchly opposed it, fearing the loss of freedom and traditional ways. Despite these disagreements, the islands have remained resilient, constantly protecting their independence and way of life.
Indeed, the history of the Skellige Islands is one of fierce independence, courage and unwavering adherence to tradition. Over the centuries, these incredible islands and their inhabitants have repeatedly demonstrated their strength and perseverance, living up to their motto "The sea is our home, the battle is our life".

Skellige is a collection of rugged, rugged islands in the Great Sea, west of the Northern Kingdoms. Widely known for its brave and intrepid seafaring population and breathtaking scenery, Skellige's geography defines its spirit.
Each island consists of six main islands and several smaller islands, each of which offers an exceptionally beautiful landscape decorated with high peaks, dense coniferous forests and green valleys. The most famous of these are Ard Skellig, the largest and most populated island, famous for its high mountains; Hindarsfjall, known for the ancient and sacred garden of Freya; and the mysterious, barren islands of Spikeroog and Undvik.

Due to the extreme climate, most of the land is dry and unsuitable for agriculture. However, the Skelligers make up for this with their successful fishing and whaling industries. Their harbors are constantly bustling with fishermen, and the sea often echoes with the mighty beats of whalers' drummers.

Swept by merciless winds and surrounded by freezing water, Skellige looks inhospitable. But here live strong people who have embraced these extremes and adapted their lives to the whims of the elements. Skellige's geography therefore plays a fundamental role in shaping the ethos and spirit of the people, reflecting both the rugged beauty of the island and their steadfast resilience.