The Encyclopedia of Arda - an interactive guide to the world of J.R.R. Tolkien
Dates
Founded long before the beginning of the First Age, sacked in I 509
Location
The central regions of Beleriand
Origins
Established by Elwë Singollo (later known as Thingol) and Melian the Maia
Race
Division
Culture
Settlements
The land's main stronghold was at Menegroth
Pronunciation
do'ree-ath ('th' as in English 'path')
Meaning
'Land of the fence' (referring to the Girdle of Melian)
Other names

Indexes:

About this entry:

  • Updated 4 March 2009
  • Updates planned: 1
Map of Doriath

The mighty forest kingdom of Elu Thingol, greatest of the realms of the Sindar in Beleriand. The kingdom lay in two parts, separated by the river Esgalduin: the lesser, northwestern Forest of Neldoreth, and the greater, southern Forest of Region. These forests were encompassed by the Girdle of Melian, which protected the land from its enemies. Also within the Girdle were two smaller forests: the oakwood of Nivrim on the western banks of Sirion, and the narrow woodland of Arthórien beyond Aros to the east.

In the midst of Doriath, carved into the rock beside the river Esgalduin, lay the halls of Menegroth, the Thousand Caves, citadel of King Thingol and Melian his queen.

Though Thingol ruled Doriath for long ages, he was slain in the last years of the First Age by Dwarves. After this his realm was ruled for a short time by his grandson Dior Eluchíl, before its final destruction by the Sons of Fëanor.


See also...

Adanedhel, Aelin-uial, Ainur, Algund, Alphabet of Daeron, Amon Ethir, Amon Rûdh, Anach, Andróg, Angerthas Daeron, Anglachel, Aranel, Arthórien, Arvernien, Beeches, [See the full list...]

Indexes:

About this entry:

  • Updated 4 March 2009
  • Updates planned: 1

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