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But beyond, in the great fief of Belfalas, dwelt Prince Imrahil in his castle of Dol Amroth by the sea, and he was of high blood, and his folk also, tall men and proud with sea-grey eyes.
-The Return of the King (Book Five), Chapter 1
Before the Downfall of Numenor, a noble family of Faithful settled in Befalas and built a stronghold on the promontory over the bay. After the Realms in Exile were founded, this family of Numenoreans were given the title of Prince and the realm was known as Dor-En-Ernil.
In T.A. 1980, many Galadhrim fled south after the fall of Khazad-Dum and began to depart to the west from the haven of Edhellond on the Bay of Befalas. In T.A. 1981 Amroth, the King of Lorien, attempted to sail West with his beloved Nimrodel. The lovers were separated during their passage through Gondor and Amroth arrived at Edhellond before Nimrodel.
Amroth’s love for Nimrodel was so great that he inspired the Elves to delay their departure till the end of autumn. Amroth and the Elves stayed on a ship and waited, but one night a great storm came and carried the ship away. When Amroth awoke and saw they were in open water, he dived into the bay to return to his love.
King Amroth was never seen again and the Elves of Edhellond made it safely to Tol Eressa. In honor of Amroth, the Numenoreans of Dor-En-Ernil named the headland where he sank beneath the waves Dol Amroth and built a city upon it. From Dol Amroth, the first Prince of Dor-En-Ernil, Galador began his rule of the region.
Since its founding, Dol Amroth has been the seat of power of twenty-two Princes, with Prince Imrahil the Fair currently sitting upon its throne. Despite the decline of the Kingdom of Gondor, the Princes of Dor-En-Ernil and their Swan-Knights stand ready to defend the land should the Steward ask it of them.
The Princes of Dol Amroth, known for their bravery, loyalty, and strong leadership, rule over Dol Amroth. The authority of Dol Amroth is strongly connected to the realm of Gondor, but it possesses a degree of independence that showcases its distinct history, importance in sea travel, and strength in battle.
The Prince is at the heart of Dol Amroth's leadership, acting as the city's hereditary ruler and overseeing its surrounding fiefdom. The Prince title is inherited over generations, its lineage can be traced back to Númenórean settlers and, as legend has it, Elven heritage. The rulers of Dol Amroth serve not only as political figures but also as military officers, tasked with protecting the area and overseeing its navy. Their important role as leaders in both civil and military matters is vital in a city with a robust martial history and a strategic position along the coast.
The Prince rules from a fortress in the city, supervising a council made up of counselors, military leaders, and aristocratic clans. These advisors help the Prince with decision-making regarding city administration, defense strategies, and interactions with other regions of Gondor. The chivalric culture of Dol Amroth's court is famed for its strong focus on honor, duty, and loyalty, values that are deeply rooted in the ruling family and the city's elite.
Military and naval strength are key elements of Dol Amroth’s governance. The city's location on the Bay of Belfalas is crucial for Gondor's defense against sea threats, specifically from the Corsairs of Umbar and other enemies. The Princes of Dol Amroth lead a powerful navy, overseeing the arrangement, instruction, and dispatch of naval troops. The busy harbor of the city serves as a hub for ship construction, commerce, and defense, showcasing its significance as a maritime stronghold.
Aside from the navy, Dol Amroth is also known for its top-tier horsemen, the Swan Knights. Chosen from the noble families of the area, these knights are recognized for their outstanding fighting ability, devotion to the Prince, and commitment to the code of chivalry. The Swan Knights are essential to protecting Dol Amroth and Gondor, frequently leading cavalry charges in important battles and acting as the Prince's personal guard.
Although Dol Amroth is closely connected to Gondor, it has a level of self-governance that mirrors the city's distinct position and the authority of its ruling dynasty. The Princes of Dol Amroth have long been loyal partners of the ruling Steward or King of Gondor, offering military assistance and advice in times of conflict. Nevertheless, they also retain authority over their own territories, making choices that benefit Dol Amroth and its inhabitants.
This partnership involves mutual esteem and collaboration. The Prince of Dol Amroth frequently acts as a crucial consultant to the Steward of Gondor, with the city holding a significant position in the realm's political and military tactics.
In addition to its military importance, Dol Amroth also serves as a hub for culture and commerce. The city's administration involves overseeing its economic wealth, which is supported by trade at sea and the fortunes of its noble families. The Prince is in charge of managing taxes, trade deals, and infrastructure upkeep to keep the city prosperous and safe.
Dol Amroth's cultural influences stem from its Númenórean and Elven lineage, evident in its architectural style, artwork, and traditions. The city is famous for its graceful stone architecture, abundant gardens, and a profound love for music, poetry, and the arts. The leadership of Dol Amroth encourages the cultural diversity by backing creative projects and upholding the city's reputation as a center of Gondorian culture.
Text References
The Two Towers (Book 3)
The Return of the King (Book 5)
The Return of the King (Book 6)
The Appendices
