Who Built Minas Anor?
Minas Anor, also known as the Tower of the Sun, is a city of great importance in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth legendarium. It was the capital of Gondor during the Stewards of the Reckoning era, and its construction is steeped in history and lore. In this article, we will explore who built Minas Anor and provide a comprehensive overview of its history and significance.
The Origins of Minas Anor
Minas Anor was founded by Anárion, the brother of Isildur, second son of Elendil, and High King of Arnor. After the Wars of Beleriand, Elendil and his sons sailed across the Sea to Middle-earth to reclaim their kingdom and escape the destruction of Numenor. When they arrived, they were met with hostility from Sauron’s armies and were forced to take refuge in the mountain range of Ephel Dúath.
Anárion and Isildur went to the northern kingdom of Rhûn to recruit men and arms, but while they were away, the armies of Sauron attacked Ephel Dúath and Elendil was mortally wounded. Anárion then founded Minas Anor on the rock of Aglarond, overlooking the valley of Morgai, to serve as a fortress against Sauron’s forces.
The Building of Minas Anor
The city of Minas Anor was built under the leadership of Anárion, with the help of the Stewards of Gondor. It was designed as a circular city with seven levels, with Minas Anor standing on the top level, overlooking the Anduin. The city was built to be impregnable, with seven concentric circles of wall, each level slightly higher than the one below, creating a fortified and watchful stronghold.
The city’s architecture was designed by Anárion, with the aid of his architects and masons, and it took many years to complete. The building process was hindered by the threat of Sauron’s armies and the wars against him, but eventually, Minas Anor was finished, serving as the capital of Gondor.
Minas Anor’s History and Significance
Minas Anor played a significant role in the history of Gondor and Middle-earth. It served as the seat of power for the Stewards of Gondor during the Third Age, until the coming of the Last Alliance and the coronation of Eärnur. During the War of the Ring, Minas Anor was besieged by the armies of Mordor, but the city’s walls held firm, and the city’s defenders repelled the attackers.
After the War, Minas Anor became the capital of the Kingdom of Gondor under the rule of King Elessar. The city’s architecture was modified to include new towers and defenses, and it continued to serve as a symbol of the city’s strength and resilience.
Legacy of Minas Anor
The legacy of Minas Anor can be seen in the present day, where it stands as a testament to the courage and perseverance of those who built it. The city’s design and architecture have inspired generations of builders and architects, and its story has become an integral part of the lore and legend of Middle-earth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Minas Anor, the Tower of the Sun, was built by Anárion, the brother of Isildur, second son of Elendil, and High King of Arnor. The city’s history and significance are rooted in its strategic location and design, making it an important stronghold against Sauron’s forces. Today, Minas Anor remains a testament to the power and resilience of the city’s founders, serving as a reminder of the enduring legacy of Middle-earth’s greatest cities.
Additional Facts and Figures
• Length of time taken to build Minas Anor: 10 years
• Height of Minas Anor: 7 levels
• Area of Minas Anor: 300 acres
• Defenses of Minas Anor: 7 concentric circles of wall
• Founders of Minas Anor: Anárion, the brother of Isildur
• Original name of Minas Anor: Aglarond
Key Figures in the History of Minas Anor
• Anárion: The brother of Isildur, second son of Elendil, and High King of Arnor.
• Elendil: The king of Arnor and Gondor who sailed across the Sea to reclaim his kingdom.
• Sauron: The main antagonist of the Lord of the Rings and the king of Mordor.
Bibliography
- J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, volume III, "The War of the Ring"
- J.R.R. Tolkien, The Silmarillion
- J.R.R. Tolkien, Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth