The Encyclopedia of Arda - an interactive guide to the world of J.R.R. Tolkien
Dates
The tower originally called Minas Anor (and later Minas Tirith) was constructed in the early days of Gondor, before the end of the Second Age
Location
Leading westward up from Minas Tirith's sixth tier to its highest, where the Citadel stood
Race
Division
Culture
Settlements
Leading to the Citadel of Gondor at the highest level of Minas Tirith

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  • Updated 10 October 2024
  • This entry is complete

Seventh Gate

The gate to the High Court of Minas Tirith

Map of the Seventh Gate of Minas Tirith

The city of Minas Tirith was divided into seven ascending tiers, each served by its own gate from the tier below. The last of these gates, the Seventh Gate, led to the highest point of the city, the Citadel, with its great White Tower looming over the Place of the Fountain that held the White Tree of the Eldar.

The way to the Seventh Gate led westward and upward from the sixth level of the city, cutting directly through the great bastion of rock that ran up through all seven levels of Minas Tirith. The gate was approached by a lamplit tunnel through the rock, sloping up towards the High Court. The Seventh Gate itself was held within an arch, the keystone of which was carved as a crowned head. Beyond the crowned gate lay the seat of the Kings of Gondor, and of the Stewards who ruled after them.

The High Court beyond the Seventh Gate was guarded by the elite force known as the Guards of the Citadel, black-cloaked and bearing winged helms made from mithril. Beyond the Seventh Gate, no horse was permitted, and so when Gandalf and Peregrin Took passed this way, even Gandalf's great horse Shadowfax was not allowed entrance through the gate.


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About this entry:

  • Updated 10 October 2024
  • This entry is complete

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