Eldamar

Eldamar (Quenya: Elvenhome) was the coastal region of Aman where the Elves dwelt after their westward journey. It lay east of the mountains, stretching around the Bay of Eldamar. Eldamar encompassed the cleft in the mountains through which the light of the Two Trees of Valinor could reach the sea. Within this valley stood the hill upon which the chief city of the Noldor and the Vanyar was built. Along the shores of the bay lay the haven of the Teleri.

History

After the Great Journey, the three kindreds of the Elves who accepted the summons of the Valar dwelt in Eldamar: the Vanyar and Noldor on Túna, and the Teleri upon the coasts. For a time, these peoples lived together in peace under the light of the Trees.

In the First Age, however, Eldamar was the scene of strife. When Fëanor roused the Noldor to rebellion after the theft of the Silmarils, he led a great host northwards out of Eldamar. During their flight occurred the first Kinslaying, where many of the Teleri were slain. Fëanor’s half-brother at first joined the march but turned back, returning to his city to rule the remnant of the Noldor who remained faithful.

Though marred by these events, Eldamar endured as the chief dwelling-place of the Elves in Aman throughout the later Ages, and Tol Eressëa became especially known as a haven for those who sailed west from Middle-earth.

Etymology

The name Eldamar derives from Quenya *elda* (“High-elf”) and *már* (“home”), meaning “Elvenhome”.

In-game mentions

• The comsmetic bundle Item:Song of Eldamar Set carries Eldamar's name.