Saarthal

 is an abandoned tomb in Skyrim, located in Hold. Arniel Gane, a researcher at The College of Winterhold, is investigating magical relics contained within.

History
It was the capital city of the First Empire of the Nords, which was established by Ysgramor. It was one of the first cities established by men in Tamriel. The Elves destroyed this city in what is now known as the Night of Tears, and only Ysgramor and his three sons escaped the carnage. Later, the destruction of this town would be avenged when Ysgramor returned with his famed warriors, the Five Hundred Companions.

Interactions
The Dragonborn visits this location with three other mage-apprentices after joining The College of Winterhold. First, he or she is instructed to help a scholar retrieve three Enchanted Rings from various locations in the ruins. Doing so, the Saarthal Amulet is discovered.When the amulet is worn and a spell is cast towards the door it opens to a burial chamber. Along with Tolfdir, the Dragonborn enters the room where the Dragonborn sees a vision of Nerein, a member of Psijic Order. If the location is visited before "Under Saarthal", the door to the inner rooms remains locked.

Solving the puzzle
The puzzle with the rotating pillars is solved by discovering the animal symbol behind each pillar. This can be done through using the magelight spell and casting it behind each pillar.

Quests

 * Under Saarthal
 * Forbidden Legend

Behind the scenes

 * To the North West of Saarthal you will find some bones of a Mammoth. Around it's bones you will find some weapons that look like Spears. Probably Nordic/Dwemer people that hunted Mammoths years ago.