The Encyclopedia of Arda - an interactive guide to the world of J.R.R. Tolkien
Dates
Following the Darkening of Valinor and the end of the Years of the Trees, soon after the raising of the Sun and Moon into the sky and the beginning of the Years of the Sun
Location
The eastern coasts of Aman, and the seas to the eastward
Race
Division
Important peaks
At this time the mountains of the Pelóri were raised in height to form an impassible barrier
Islands
The Enchanted Isles were placed in the Great Sea at this time
Pronunciation
Valinor is pronounced 'va'linorr' (where 'rr' emphasises that the final r sound should be distinctly pronounced)
Meaning
Valinor means 'land of the Valar' (that is, 'land of the Powers')
Other names

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About this entry:

  • Updated 18 August 2025
  • This entry is complete

Hiding of Valinor

The Valar’s defence of their realm

A time, also known as Nurtalë Valinóreva, immediately following the Darkening of Valinor and the destruction of the Two Trees. Perceiving themselves under threat from Melkor, the Valar set about raising defences against their old enemy, defences that also had the effect of blocking access to Valinor to mortals as well as Melkor and his forces. In this time the mountains of the Pelóri were raised to create immense heights above sheer cliff-faces, and the seas eastward of Aman were strung with Enchanted Isles to snare unwary voyagers. The defences raised during the Hiding of Valinor remained impenetrable until near the end of the First Age, when Eärendil the Mariner succeeded in passing through them, though only with the aid of a Silmaril.


Indexes:

About this entry:

  • Updated 18 August 2025
  • This entry is complete

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