The Sanctuary of Akras

Akrasidene. A bustling cultural hub for the citizens of Elaion, bringing visitors year-round to the eastern coast. It's second in popularity only to the capital itself, and at its center lies the Sanctuary of Akras. A temple meant to fit up to tens of thousands, the Sanctuary of Akras is a beautifully carved structure made entirely of imported stone from the east. Its tallest spire rises 250ft, visible from any point in the city. On its exterior, The Sanctuary displays columns and statues - even entire religious scenes - all in the uniform light color of the stone. The main entrance's enormous wooden doors are only ever closed during times of emergency, in which case The Sanctuary is meant to be used as a fortress. Within The Sanctuary, the main chamber is an open space with seating for twenty thousand, all looking down - amphitheatre-style - at a central pulpit. It's walls are decorated with colorful tapestries and wide windows high on the walls allow in natural lighting. Torches are also placed at intervals for evening services, or those who wish to seek refuge at night.

Purpose / Function

The Sanctuary of Akras was built as a worship site for Akras, the God of Honesty in the primary religion of the Elladan culture.

Alterations

The Sanctuary was originally built as a much smaller structure, barely more than a simple church in the developing area that would eventually become Akrasidene. During the age of the Three Kingdoms, the Kingdom of Leria that controlled the area imported great amounts of stone to build a statue dedicated to Akras. This statue was destroyed when the city was ransacked shortly before the rise of the Elaion monarchy, but the stone, as well as more import, was used to build The Sanctuary as it stands.

History

The Sanctuary of Akras as it is now known today was built shortly after the rise of the Elaion monarchy. The second monarch, King Elyes the Great, imported the stone needed to complete the immense structure. Where there originally stood a statue dedicated to the deity, The Sanctuary was erected, including the use of the original stone.

Alternative Names

The Sanctuary

Type

Cathedral / Great temple