Neverwinter

Geography

Aliases

Eigersstor City of Skilled Hands Jewel of the North

Type

Settlement

Region

Sword Coast North, northwest Faerûn

Size

City (c. 1491 DR) Formerly: Metropolis (before 1451 DR) Formerly: Large city (c. 1372 DR)
[12]Society Demonym Neveren or Neverwintian

Races

Half-elves, humans, and a minority of dwarves (c. 1372 DR) Plus a minority of dragonborn, eladrin, tieflings, orcs, and half-orcs (c. 1479 DR)

Religions

Asmodeus, Bahamut, Helm, Kelemvor, Oghma, Selûne, Torm, Tyr, Waukeen

Commerce

Imports

Crafters, mercenaries

Exports

Crafts (especially water-clocks and exotic lamps), fish, horticulture, logging, magical innovations

Currency

1pp = 1 fairsail = 10 gold dragons = 20 electrum sea-shee = 100 silver bults = 1000 copper tharns

Politics

Type

Lordship Formerly: Royalty Formerly: Lordship

History

Population

17,000 in 1357 DR 23,192 in 1372 DR

Ruler

Lord Nasher Alagondar in 1357 and 1372 DR King Nasher Alagondar in 1385 DR King Bann Alagondar in 1400 DR Lord Protector Dagult Neverember in 1491 DR
Neverwinter, also known as the City of Skilled Hands and the Jewel of the North, was a bustling, cultured, and cosmopolitan city-state in northwest Faerûn.
Neverwinter was regarded by Volo as the most cosmopolitan and civilized city in all of Faerûn. The city was a member in good standing of the Lords' Alliance. Known for its craftsfolk and gardeners, the city's multi-colored-glass lamps, precision water clocks, exquisite jewelry, and magnificent gardens ensured the warm winters were colorful and the summers were rich with fresh fruit.

"Neverwinter is a friendly city of craftsmen, who trade extensively via the great merchants of Waterdeep; their water-clocks and multi-hued lamps can be found throughout the Realms. Neverwinter gained its name from the skill of its gardeners, who contrived to keep flowers blooming throughout the months of snow—a practice they continue with pride."— Elminster's notes on Neverwinter

Etymology

The city was originally named Eigersstor, which was an Illuskan word. The name "Neverwinter" was the Chondathan translation.
A number of legends explained where the city's name came from, but they contradicted each other. Some believed the city was founded by a sun elf named Halueth Never, who led the elves of Iliyanbruen against an Illuskan invasion in −10 DR. Surrounded by enemies, he chose the site where the river met the sea to make his last stand, naming the place "Never's Winter", believing he would die in the ensuing battle. However, human allies arrived just in time and together they defeated the Illuskans. Never founded the city, keeping the name, and over the years it was shortened to "Neverwinter".
Others, such as Volo and Elminster, reported the name came from its gardens, for Neverwinter's gardeners were acclaimed throughout the Realms for keeping their gardens growing and flowers blooming even through winter snow. This was also the source of the city's moniker, "the City of Skilled Hands". (In fact, they used hothouses.)
Others, however, believed the city was named for its unusually warm climate and how its harbor remained ice-free in the winters.

Geography

Neverwinter stood on the northern Sword Coast, on the High Road between Waterdeep and Luskan, specifically between Leilon and Port Llast. To the east lay the Neverwinter Wood and, at its heart, the volcanic Mount Hotenow. The Neverwinter River was heated by fire elementals living under the volcano before flowing through the forest and the city. It carried its supernatural warmth with it, keeping the river and harbor from freezing up in winter and the gardens green year-round. The heat given off by the river created a permanent warm climate in the immediate area.
Southeast of Neverwinter stood the monastery of Helm's Hold, further south down the High Road stood the village of Vilnask, to the east – the village of Floodblest on the shores of Neverwinter River, and the villages of Windycliffs and Rothé Valley to the north.

History

Brief History

The first settlement in the Savage Frontier was an elven city known as Illefarn, a bustling nation after the time of the Crown Wars. Eventually, Illefarn was divided into three nations, of which Iliyanbruen was the most prominent. Iliyanbruen was weakened by orc invasions, which paved the way for Eigersstor, the first multi-racial settlement in the area, which would later be called Neverwinter.
Neverwinter became a center of civilization, peace, and culture and was widely viewed as a marvel by visitors. This trend lasted, seemingly unbroken since its founding until the Year of Wild Magic, 1372 DR when a disease known as the Wailing Death laid low most of the city's inhabitants. Then, in the Year of Blue Fire, 1385 DR, the Spellplague struck both Neverwinter and all of Faerûn.
The century that followed saw the rise in power of a new Netheril. Netherese loyalists infiltrated the power structure of the weakened Neverwinter, but their efforts were sidetracked by the eruption of Mount Hotenow in the Year of Knowledge Unearthed, 1451 DR, laying the city to waste and killing the ruling Alagondar family.
In the Year of the First Circle, 1468 DR, Lord Dagult Neverember, seeing an opportunity to add to his financial empire, hired workers to help rebuild the city and Mintarn mercenaries to protect it from monsters and bandits. Claiming to be a descendant of Neverwinter's former rulers and thus the rightful "Lord Protector" of the city, Dagult started the New Neverwinter movement. Lord Neverember invested a great deal of his own fortune to rebuild the city's infrastructure, buy the interest of merchants to send their caravans again to Neverwinter, and even ensure Neverwintan refugees had enough food and gold in hand. By 1491 DR, Neverember's efforts to rebuild the city proved successful, and Neverwinter had slowly been restored as a center of civilization in the Sword Coast North.

Symbol

The emblem of Neverwinter.
Circa 1357 DR, the badge of Neverwinter was three white snowflakes of different shapes contained in silver and blue halos. These were arranged vertically as if falling and offset so they pointed to the right. They were linked by a white swirl.

Government

By 1357 DR, the city was ruled fairly and justly by Lord Nasher Alagondar, an ageing, veteran adventurer and devout worshiper of Tyr. As such, the Neverwintans followed a Tyrran faith that promoted justice and fairness, with greed frowned upon. Lord Nasher ensured the city was well defended, both physically and magically, against attacks or infiltration from Luskan, Neverwinter's warlike rival. It was forbidden to make maps of the city as part of an effort to thwart Luskan spies.
While Lord Nasher was the nominal leader, the real power in the city was held by the Many-Starred Cloak, an order of good-aligned wizards that supported the rule of Lord Nasher.
Lord Nasher rejected the position of King of Neverwinter for some time but reluctantly accepted the title in 1385 DR. He was succeeded by his son, Bann Alagondar, who was unable to keep the city intact.
After the eruption of Mount Hotenow in 1451 DR, Lord Nasher's son, Bann Alagondar, had perished along with most of the ruling family, leaving the city in shambles. With the restoration of Neverwinter, Lord Dagult Neverember, Lord of the Mintarn, appointed himself as the "Lord Protector" of the city. He ruled the city with an iron fist and purged most dissenting factions, consolidating power and restoring order. By 1491 DR, Lord Neverember was able to lead the city through a recovery period, making Neverwinter a powerful force once again in Faerûn.

New Neverwinter

During the civil war that began in 1451 DR, the once-great city of Neverwinter fell into ruin as its people fled, with many of its prominent citizens among them. By 1467 DR, a new government arose in Neverwinter with Lord Dagult Neverember at its head. Many of the city's former denizens remained loyal to their city, its rebuilding supported by many of its people, both native and foreign.
The citizens of New Neverwinter, despite their hardships, managed to restore the city, though it remained incomplete. While the city’s former splendor was no longer present, its influence was slowly increasing, becoming an active trade hub once more. The New Neverwinter era saw the rise of various factions, including the mercenary forces led by Neverember and other local groups that emerged to help keep the peace and order.

Relations

Neverwinter had numerous relations with nearby regions and cities. It maintained a relatively peaceful relationship with Waterdeep and the surrounding regions, often collaborating with local leaders and merchants.
However, it had a contentious relationship with Luskan, due to its rivalry and competition over control of trade routes and influence over the northern Sword Coast. The rivalry led to frequent conflicts and espionage attempts between the two cities.

Defenses

Neverwinter's defenses were robust, especially under Lord Nasher Alagondar's rule. The city had a well-trained militia and a network of magical wards to protect against both physical and magical threats. The defenses were further reinforced by alliances with neighboring regions and trade partners, which helped deter potential invaders.
Following the eruption of Mount Hotenow and the rise of Dagult Neverember, the defenses were rebuilt and modernized. This included the recruitment of skilled mercenaries and the fortification of the city's walls and magical barriers.

Law & Order

Neverwinter was known for its strict adherence to laws and order. Under Lord Nasher Alagondar, the city's laws were fair but firm, emphasizing justice and the well-being of its citizens. The city's law enforcement was efficient, with a focus on maintaining public order and protecting against crime.
During the New Neverwinter era, Dagult Neverember's rule introduced more stringent measures to ensure stability. This included stricter enforcement of laws and regulations, aimed at curbing dissent and ensuring loyalty to the new regime.

Society

Neverwinter's society was diverse, with a mix of races and cultures living together in relative harmony. The city was known for its cosmopolitan nature, attracting people from various regions seeking trade, knowledge, and opportunities.
The society was characterized by its emphasis on craftsmanship and the arts, with a strong focus on maintaining high standards of living and cultural enrichment. The city's gardens and public spaces were a testament to its residents' dedication to beauty and quality.

Religion

Neverwinter was home to a variety of religious practices, with temples dedicated to numerous deities. The most prominent deities worshiped included Tyr, Bahamut, Helm, Kelemvor, Oghma, Selûne, Torm, and Waukeen. The city's religious institutions played a significant role in maintaining moral and social order.

Trade & Business

Neverwinter was a major trading hub in the Sword Coast, known for its crafts, horticulture, and magical innovations. The city's strategic location made it a key player in regional trade, with goods flowing in and out of the bustling harbor.
The city was renowned for its high-quality exports, including intricate water-clocks, exotic lamps, and exquisite jewelry. Its trade relations with neighboring cities and regions were vital to its economic prosperity.

Layout

Neverwinter's layout was designed to accommodate its growing population and trade activities. The city was organized with distinct districts, each serving specific purposes, such as residential areas, marketplaces, and administrative centers.
The Neverwinter River ran through the city, providing a natural means of transportation and trade. The city's architecture was a blend of practical and aesthetic considerations, reflecting its status as a cultural and economic center.

Locations

Neverwinter featured various notable locations, including its harbor, marketplaces, and public spaces. Key landmarks included the Lord's Palace, the Many-Starred Cloak's headquarters, and several renowned gardens and public buildings.

Inhabitants

The city's inhabitants were a diverse mix of races, including humans, elves, dwarves, and other fantasy races. The population was known for its skilled craftsmanship, intelligence, and cultural achievements.

Organizations

Neverwinter was home to several influential organizations, including the Many-Starred Cloak, a powerful order of wizards, and various guilds and trade associations. These organizations played a crucial role in the city's governance and economy.

Trivia

Neverwinter was often mentioned in various legends and stories due to its unique characteristics and historical significance. The city's name, culture, and architecture were frequently referenced in the literature and lore of the Forgotten Realms.

Locations

As of 1372 DR, Neverwinter was divided into the following districts:
The City Core, the central region of the city, where the ruling offices and main temples were located.
The Peninsula District, which comprised the southwestern quadrant of the city.
The Docks District, the main port.
The Blacklake District, located in the northeastern quadrant.
The Beggar's Nest, located in the southeast quadrant.
The Arcanist Quarter, located in the southeast quadrant.

After the war with Luskan, some parts of the city were rebuilt, and the city's layout changed:
The Merchant Quarter, located at the center of the city, and built over the remains of the City Core and the Peninsula District.
The Blacklake and Docks Districts survived the war with Luskan almost unscathed. Tyr's Eye plaza separated the Blacklake district and Castle Never remained unaffected, apart from a great fire that took place after the Shadow War that torched a mages' school, later rebuilt into a Temple of Waukeen.

After the Mount Hotenow eruption in 1451 DR, the city was almost destroyed. After the rebuilding project, the layout was drastically changed:
The Protector's Enclave, located where the City Core, the Peninsula District, and the Merchant Quarter once stood.
The Blacklake District was now the northwestern section of the city.
The Docks District became part of the Protector's Enclave to the south, and the Blacklake District to the north.
The Neverdeath Graveyard was built as the main graveyard of the city.
The Arcanist Quarter and the Beggar's Nest were completely destroyed, being replaced by the Chasm. The Chasm was sealed around 1485 DR.
The River District, also known as the Towers District, located at the northeastern portion of the city.

Type

Large city

Related Historical Events

• 1491
  The party meets with Gundren Rockseeker in Neverwinter