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'''Windhelm''' is one of the major cities in {{Skyrim}}.
  
'''Windhelm''' is one of the major cities in {{Skyrim}}.
   
−
The city sits on the northern bank of the [[White River]] and is an imposing sight with its massive ice-covered stone walls. It also has a port, accessible via the city itself. Windhelm is located near the northern border of the hold, near [[Winterhold Hold|Winterhold]] and [[The Pale]]. It is also close to the border with [[Morrowind]], which can be found by road a relatively short walk up the mountains east of the city.
+
The city sits on the northern bank of the [[White River]] and is an imposing sight with its massive ice-covered stone walls. It also has a port, accessible via the city itself. Windhelm is located near the northern border of the hold, near [[Winterhold Hold|Winterhold]] and [[the Pale]]. It is also close to the border with [[Morrowind]], which can be found by road a relatively short walk up the mountains east of the city.
   
−
The city is very cold, being in the icy north of Skyrim, however travelers heading toward [[The Rift]] or [[Whiterun Hold|Whiterun]] will see the landscape turn green and lush almost immediately south of the city limits. Travelers to the city are greeted by the majestic frozen bridge leading to the main gate, but it is the old Palace of [[Ysgramor]] (now known as the [[Palace of the Kings]]), towering over all other structures in the city, that truly takes the breath away. The palace is considered to be one of the only original First Empire buildings remaining.<ref name="pocket">[[Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition/Skyrim]]</ref>
 +
The city is very cold, being in the icy north of Skyrim, however travelers heading toward [[the Rift]] or [[Whiterun Hold|Whiterun]] will see the landscape turn green and lush almost immediately south of the city limits. Travelers to the city are greeted by the majestic frozen bridge leading to the main gate, but it is the old Palace of [[Ysgramor (Lore)|Ysgramor]] (now known as the [[Palace of the Kings]]), towering over all other structures in the city, that truly takes the breath away. The palace is considered to be one of the only original First Empire buildings remaining.<ref name="pocket">''[[Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition: Skyrim]]''</ref>
   
 
==Geography==
  
==Geography==
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==History==
  
==History==
 
===Merethic Era===
  
===Merethic Era===
−
During [[The Return]] in the late [[Merethic Era]], [[Ysgramor]]'s son [[Yngol]] was separated from the rest of the fleet in a terrible [[Storm of Separation|storm]]. Ysgramor eventually found the shipwreck of Yngol's longboat, the [[Harakk]], and discovered that his son and his crew had been slain by the [[Sea-Ghost]]s.<ref name="return2">[[Songs of the Return, Vol 2]]</ref><ref name="return19">[[Songs of the Return, Vol 19]]</ref><ref>[[Yngol And The Sea-Ghosts]]</ref>
 +
During [[The Return]] in the late [[Merethic Era]], [[Ysgramor (Lore)|Ysgramor]]'s son [[Yngol]] was separated from the rest of the fleet in a [[Storm of Separation|terrible storm]]. Ysgramor eventually found the shipwreck of Yngol's longboat, the [[Harakk]], and discovered that his son and his crew had been slain by the [[Sea-Ghost]]s.<ref name="return2">[[Songs of the Return, Vol 2]]</ref><ref name="return19">''[[Songs of the Return, Vol 19]]''</ref><ref>''[[Yngol And The Sea-Ghosts]]''</ref>
   
 
Ysgramor, in grief, decided to build a great city where the nearby river met the sea. It was built as a monument of the [[Men|mankind]]. The city was built in [[Atmora]]n fashion and was made by [[elven]] captives.<ref name="return19"/>
  
Ysgramor, in grief, decided to build a great city where the nearby river met the sea. It was built as a monument of the [[Men|mankind]]. The city was built in [[Atmora]]n fashion and was made by [[elven]] captives.<ref name="return19"/>
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===Second Era===
  
===Second Era===
−
It was attacked again in the [[Second Era]], in [[Timeline|2E 546]], by the [[Akavir]]i army of [[Ada'Soom Dir-Kamal]].<ref name="pocket"/> <ref name="Jorunn">[http://elderscrollsonline.com/en/news/post/2012/12/03/the-stories-of-tamriel-jorunn-the-skald-king The Stories of Tamriel: Jorunn the Skald King] </ref>. Only the [[Palace of the Kings]] was left undestroyed. <ref name="Jorunn">[http://elderscrollsonline.com/en/news/post/2012/12/03/the-stories-of-tamriel-jorunn-the-skald-king The Stories of Tamriel: Jorunn the Skald King] </ref>
 +
It was attacked again in the [[Second Era]], in [[Timeline|2E 546]], by the [[Akavir]]i army of [[Ada'Soom Dir-Kamal]].<ref name="pocket"/> <ref name="Jorunn">[http://elderscrollsonline.com/en/news/post/2012/12/03/the-stories-of-tamriel-jorunn-the-skald-king The Stories of Tamriel: Jorunn the Skald King] </ref>. Only the [[Palace of the Kings]] was left undestroyed. <ref name="Jorunn"/>
   
−
During the [[Second Era]], under the rule of Jarl [[Elgryr the Unminded]], Windhelm was in an impoverished state. Basic necessities were scare and the citizens lived in abject poverty. This eventually prompted the citizens to rebel against the Jarl and storm the palace, however it is unknown if the uprising was successful.<ref name="letters">[[The Windhelm Letters]]</ref>
 +
During the [[Second Era]], under the rule of Jarl [[Elgryr the Unminded]], Windhelm was in an impoverished state. Basic necessities were scare and the citizens lived in abject poverty. This eventually prompted the citizens to rebel against the Jarl and storm the palace, however it is unknown if the uprising was successful.<ref name="letters">''[[The Windhelm Letters]]''</ref>
   
−
===Third Era ===
 +
===Third Era===
 
During the [[Oblivion Crisis]] in the [[Third Era]], Windhelm was the only sizable city in the otherwise determinedly rural Hold of [[Eastmarch]], and served as a base for Imperial troops guarding the [[Dunmeth Pass]] into [[Morrowind]]<ref name="pocket"/>.
  
During the [[Oblivion Crisis]] in the [[Third Era]], Windhelm was the only sizable city in the otherwise determinedly rural Hold of [[Eastmarch]], and served as a base for Imperial troops guarding the [[Dunmeth Pass]] into [[Morrowind]]<ref name="pocket"/>.
   
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After the eruption of [[Red Mountain]], many [[Dunmer]] fled to Windhelm. Because of heightened suspicion generated by the ongoing Civil War, the strongly nationalist [[Nord (Skyrim)|Nords]] of Windhelm sequestered the Dunmer from the other citizens in what came to be known as the "[[Gray Quarter]]," (previously known as the "Snow Quarter") in reference to the Dunmer skin color. [[Argonian (Skyrim)|Argonians]] are also segregated from the Nord population and are forced to live at the [[Argonian Assemblage]] at the city docks.
  
After the eruption of [[Red Mountain]], many [[Dunmer]] fled to Windhelm. Because of heightened suspicion generated by the ongoing Civil War, the strongly nationalist [[Nord (Skyrim)|Nords]] of Windhelm sequestered the Dunmer from the other citizens in what came to be known as the "[[Gray Quarter]]," (previously known as the "Snow Quarter") in reference to the Dunmer skin color. [[Argonian (Skyrim)|Argonians]] are also segregated from the Nord population and are forced to live at the [[Argonian Assemblage]] at the city docks.
   
−
When Ulfric Stormcloak became Jarl, he separated the Dunmer and Argonian immigrants from the native Nord population, and founded the militia that would become the Stormcloaks. However, this may be to stop the Dunmer and Argonians from fighting each other, as in recent years there has been much conflict and hatred between the two species, or it may be a simple immigration cap due to the Stormcloaks fear of suspected Imperial spies.
 +
When Ulfric Stormcloak became Jarl, he separated the Dunmer and Argonian immigrants from the native Nord population and founded the militia that would become the Stormcloaks. However, this may have been to stop the Dunmer and Argonians from fighting each other, as in recent years there has been much conflict and hatred between the two species, or it may be a simple immigration cap due to the Stormcloaks fear of suspected Imperial spies.
   
 
It is suggested, through dialogue with [[Viola Giordano]], that the Dunmer are taxed more heavily than the Nords, and that these taxes can be raised at the Jarl's whim.
  
It is suggested, through dialogue with [[Viola Giordano]], that the Dunmer are taxed more heavily than the Nords, and that these taxes can be raised at the Jarl's whim.
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[[File:Palace of the Kings Insignia.png|thumb|right|The banner of Windhelm is depicted by a bear.]]
  
[[File:Palace of the Kings Insignia.png|thumb|right|The banner of Windhelm is depicted by a bear.]]
   
−
During [[4E 1|4E 201]], Skyrim is engaged in a [[Civil War|civil war]]. Windhelm is governed by [[Ulfric Stormcloak]], the leader of the [[Stormcloak]] rebellion. Ulfric took control of Windhelm after his father, the previous Jarl, died.
 +
During [[Timeline#4E 201|4E 201]], Skyrim is engaged in a [[Civil War|civil war]]. Windhelm is governed by [[Ulfric Stormcloak]], the leader of the [[Stormcloak]] rebellion. Ulfric took control of Windhelm after his father, the previous Jarl, died.
   
 
Ulfric believes that [[Skyrim]] should secede from what he believes is a crumbling [[Empire]]. This stance came about due to the aftermath of [[The Great War]] and the introduction of the [[White-Gold Concordat]] by the [[Aldmeri Dominion]].
  
Ulfric believes that [[Skyrim]] should secede from what he believes is a crumbling [[Empire]]. This stance came about due to the aftermath of [[The Great War]] and the introduction of the [[White-Gold Concordat]] by the [[Aldmeri Dominion]].
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*[[Torsten Cruel-Sea]] - Wealthy owner of [[Hollyfrost Farm]].
  
*[[Torsten Cruel-Sea]] - Wealthy owner of [[Hollyfrost Farm]].
 
*[[Tova Shatter-Shield]] - Wife of [[Torbjorn Shatter-Shield]].
  
*[[Tova Shatter-Shield]] - Wife of [[Torbjorn Shatter-Shield]].
−
*[[Jarl]] [[Ulfric Stormcloak]] - the Jarl of Windhelm and Leader of Stormcloaks.
 +
*[[Jarl]] [[Ulfric Stormcloak]] - the Jarl of Windhelm and leader of the Stormcloaks.
 
*[[Ulundil]] - Owner of [[Windhelm Stables]].
  
*[[Ulundil]] - Owner of [[Windhelm Stables]].
 
*[[Viola Giordano]] - Wealthy old maid.
  
*[[Viola Giordano]] - Wealthy old maid.
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*[[Harsh Master]]
  
*[[Harsh Master]]
 
*[[Find the Thalmor Assassin]]
  
*[[Find the Thalmor Assassin]]
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*[[The White Phial (quest)|The White Phial]] (side quest)
 +
*[[The White Phial (Quest)|The White Phial]] (side quest)
 
*[[Rise in the East]] (side quest)
  
*[[Rise in the East]] (side quest)
   
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*{{Arena}} {{1st}}
  
*{{Arena}} {{1st}}
 
*{{Skyrim}}
  
*{{Skyrim}}
−
*''[[The Elder Scrolls Online]]
 +
*{{Online}}
   
 
==References==
  
==References==
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[[ru:Виндхельм]]
  
[[ru:Виндхельм]]
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[[Category:Cities]]
  
 
[[Category:Skyrim: Cities]]
  
[[Category:Skyrim: Cities]]
−
[[Category:Skyrim: Locations]]
  
 
[[Category:Skyrim: Eastmarch Hold Locations]]
  
[[Category:Skyrim: Eastmarch Hold Locations]]
 
[[Category:Skyrim: Windhelm]]
  
[[Category:Skyrim: Windhelm]]

Revision as of 01:03, 24 April 2013

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Template:InfoboxSkyrimCity

Windhelm is one of the major cities in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.

The city sits on the northern bank of the White River and is an imposing sight with its massive ice-covered stone walls. It also has a port, accessible via the city itself. Windhelm is located near the northern border of the hold, near Winterhold and the Pale. It is also close to the border with Morrowind, which can be found by road a relatively short walk up the mountains east of the city.

The city is very cold, being in the icy north of Skyrim, however travelers heading toward the Rift or Whiterun will see the landscape turn green and lush almost immediately south of the city limits. Travelers to the city are greeted by the majestic frozen bridge leading to the main gate, but it is the old Palace of Ysgramor (now known as the Palace of the Kings), towering over all other structures in the city, that truly takes the breath away. The palace is considered to be one of the only original First Empire buildings remaining.[1]

Geography

The city slopes slightly northward and has different levels of elevation, with the Palace located at the city’s highest point, making it even more visible and striking. The streets are packed with snow, giving the city something of a claustrophobic feel; the sky is always white or overcast, and fierce blizzards batter the city with alarming regularity. It is within these snow-strewn streets and icy alleys that Windhelm’s inhabitants live, usually with an overriding sense of tension.

History

Merethic Era

During The Return in the late Merethic Era, Ysgramor's son Yngol was separated from the rest of the fleet in a terrible storm. Ysgramor eventually found the shipwreck of Yngol's longboat, the Harakk, and discovered that his son and his crew had been slain by the Sea-Ghosts.[2][3][4]

Ysgramor, in grief, decided to build a great city where the nearby river met the sea. It was built as a monument of the mankind. The city was built in Atmoran fashion and was made by elven captives.[3]

Ysgramor commanded for a great bridge to be constructed. Forever striding the river so no elf might sneak through to avenge his devious cousins. As the bridge was built long, so too was the palace built high, spires reaching the sky to show dominion even over the very winds that had brought forth such grief.[3]

Once Ysgramor and his men had settled in this new land, the reign of the Ysgramor Dynasty began, and Windhelm served as the capital city of the First Empire.

It is said that huge tomb was prepared for Ysgramor in the deep hallows beneath the city. However, Ysgramor chose to be buried at sea, facing his homeland, Atmora. Ysgramor's burial place is known as Ysgramor's Tomb.[3]

The carved stones in Windhelm are probably in memory of the 500 Companions, Ysgramor's men.

First Era

During the third century of the First Era, Windhelm was sacked during the War of Succession. [1].

Second Era

It was attacked again in the Second Era, in 2E 546, by the Akaviri army of Ada'Soom Dir-Kamal.[1] [5]. Only the Palace of the Kings was left undestroyed. [5]

During the Second Era, under the rule of Jarl Elgryr the Unminded, Windhelm was in an impoverished state. Basic necessities were scare and the citizens lived in abject poverty. This eventually prompted the citizens to rebel against the Jarl and storm the palace, however it is unknown if the uprising was successful.[6]

Third Era

During the Oblivion Crisis in the Third Era, Windhelm was the only sizable city in the otherwise determinedly rural Hold of Eastmarch, and served as a base for Imperial troops guarding the Dunmeth Pass into Morrowind[1].

Each year on the 13th of Sun's Dawn, The Feast of the Dead festival is held in Windhelm to honor Ysgramor and his Five Hundred Companions.[1]

Segregation

After the eruption of Red Mountain, many Dunmer fled to Windhelm. Because of heightened suspicion generated by the ongoing Civil War, the strongly nationalist Nords of Windhelm sequestered the Dunmer from the other citizens in what came to be known as the "Gray Quarter," (previously known as the "Snow Quarter") in reference to the Dunmer skin color. Argonians are also segregated from the Nord population and are forced to live at the Argonian Assemblage at the city docks.

When Ulfric Stormcloak became Jarl, he separated the Dunmer and Argonian immigrants from the native Nord population and founded the militia that would become the Stormcloaks. However, this may have been to stop the Dunmer and Argonians from fighting each other, as in recent years there has been much conflict and hatred between the two species, or it may be a simple immigration cap due to the Stormcloaks fear of suspected Imperial spies.

It is suggested, through dialogue with Viola Giordano, that the Dunmer are taxed more heavily than the Nords, and that these taxes can be raised at the Jarl's whim.

Civil War

Palace of the Kings Insignia

The banner of Windhelm is depicted by a bear.

During 4E 201, Skyrim is engaged in a civil war. Windhelm is governed by Ulfric Stormcloak, the leader of the Stormcloak rebellion. Ulfric took control of Windhelm after his father, the previous Jarl, died.

Ulfric believes that Skyrim should secede from what he believes is a crumbling Empire. This stance came about due to the aftermath of The Great War and the introduction of the White-Gold Concordat by the Aldmeri Dominion.

Interactions

Joining the Empire during the Main Quest will set Windhelm as the location of the last battle of the civil war.


Quarters

Windhelm is composed of three quarters:

Stone Quarter

The Stone Quarter is Windhelm’s central district, the one visitors first enter when passing through the Main Gate into the city. It contains the marketplace and the most important shops and inn.

File:Stonequarter.PNG

Gray Quarter

The Gray Quarter was so named because of the large number of Dunmer that reside here. It was once named the “Snow Quarter,” but that was a long time ago. But to the elves, the name “Gray Quarter” is one of derision, cruelty, and discrimination. They believe the Nord people of Windhelm have always seen them as outsiders and hated them because of it.

File:Grayquarter.PNG

Valunstrad

Translated from the ancient Nordic, Valunstrad means “Avenue of Valor.” It is the oldest section of Windhelm and has the largest buildings in the entire city, including the ancient and majestic Palace of the Kings and the purchasable property, Hjerim.

File:Valunstrad.PNG

Points of interest

Inns

Shops

Houses

Jarl's Residence

Other

Outside the City

Purchasable property

The house in Windhelm, Hjerim, costs 12,000 gold. See main article for how to obtain.

Notable people

Quests

Gallery

Achievements

File:File:Hero of Skyrim (Achievement).png
 Hero of Skyrim
Capture Solitude or Windhelm
Points 30 Gamer points
Trophy
Silver trophy


Appearances

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 Pocket Guide to the Empire, First Edition: Skyrim
  2. ↑ Songs of the Return, Vol 2
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 Songs of the Return, Vol 19
  4. ↑ Yngol And The Sea-Ghosts
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 The Stories of Tamriel: Jorunn the Skald King
  6. ↑ The Windhelm Letters


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