Quenta Azdún

Quenta Azdún is the ruin of an old temple, built in the mountains of Dalagost due West of Thengalir's Gap. The original builders of the temple are unknown but records of its existence date back to the earliest days of the First Age. The architecture is of an unusual style, and not one known to any culture that still exists in Verrin.
There are those who believe that the Great Forge at Quenta Azdún was the one used to create the Hargead Ýrnen. While such claims are unsubstantiated, it has given the five blades of creation a new moniker- the white swords of Quenta Azdún. Strange plaques and tablets found near the forge make mention of a Themqaaril... who exactly this being is remains unknown to mortals.
The term Quenta Azdún is from an ancient long-dead tongue, the same one used to write parts of the Aendún Gesceadneth. Its meaning is unknown.

Purpose / Function

Much of the original structure has collapsed over the years, but that does not stop scholars from making educated guesses at its purpose. Due to its isolated nature many speculate that it may have been a monastery in ages past. The discovery of a large forge at the building's centre leads some to believe that the monks who once lived there saw the smithing and crafting of weapons and tools as a holy activity. The forge is far too large and ornate to have been used for the simple creation and maintenance of the monks' tools for farming or carpentry etc. It occupies a central position in the temple, much like an altar. Now known as the Great Forge, it is a site of pilgrimage for smiths and craftsmen among Men and Giants.
A large collection of intricate golden swords and jewelery was also discovered in a nearby cave, suggesting that during some calamity, one of Quenta Azdún's inhabitants carried them to safety and laid them in hoard where they could not easily be found. This may have been the same event that led to the ruination of the temple. The blades are finely crafted and barely degraded despite centuries lying in a cave. Their design is also unique.

Type

Cathedral / Great temple