Calenhir

The Calenhir (Green River in Sindarin), is a river in Gondor. It flows eastward from the highlands of the Pinnath Gelin, descending through a series of waterfalls before passing into Anfalas, and finally joining the Morthond at the base of Tarlang's Crown.

The Calenhir is notable for its steep, cascading upper course, which begins in a lake, then follows cluster of high waterfalls deep in the upper vales of the Pinnath Gelin. These falls form a chain of clear pools, each feeding the next, while the river gathers volume as it enters Anfalas. In its middle reaches, the Calenhir flattens out, slowing its flood for a while, until another steep stretch marked by three rapid waterfalls.

The river is named for its green hue as it reflects the abundant foliage of the Pinnath Gelin and the fertile lands through which it runs. This quality is reflected in its Sindarin name: calen ("green") + sîr ("river"). The Calenhir is an important tributary of the Morthond, carrying waters from the western uplands into the heart of Gondor, and contributing to the fertility of the valleys near its confluence.

Although never a major route for travel or trade as its numerous waterfalls make boating unviable, the Calenhir holds local importance for the folk of Anfalas and Pinnath Gelin, who depend upon its waters for farming and fishing, and its pools and calmer stretches are valued as sources of fresh water. Like many rivers of Gondor, it also has a defensive value, forming part of the natural barriers of the western provinces.

Maps

Gallery

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  The first two of Calenhir's five source waterfalls form a peaceful lake at its highest point.
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  The name Calenhir means "Green River", and indeed its waters do seem to hold a green hue, reflective of its surroundings as it is.
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  The lake runs down the first of four waterfalls along the river's course by Pahor Boha.
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  The third source waterfall widens the river.
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  The fourth source waterfall brings even more water to its flow.
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  The Calenhir passes into Anfalas, where it has a flatter stretch for a bit.
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  The fifth and last source waterfall joins the flood in Anfalas.
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  The Calenhir then goes into a series of three waterfalls in quick succession.
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  The Calenhir has a fairly steep gradient as it heads towards the lower flatlands nearer the coast.
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  The river's last waterfall is a short distance away from the Morthond confluence.
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  The final stretch of the Calenhir shortly before its meeting with the Morthond.
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  The Calenhir merges its flow with that of the Morthond in Tarlang's Crown in Western Gondor.