Zactarn

Zactarn is the oldest dwarven city in existence and has been continually habilitated since its founding many eons ago. It lies in the southwestern region of Svellbjargheim and is visited by few, due to its remote location in the mountains. The city is considered the birthplace of the Oristi culture, the old precurser to the dwarven cultures the world knows today. Nowadays the city lies partially abandonded as many of the early dwarves eventually left to explore and settle new places.
== History ==
When exactly the proto-dwarves of Oristi settled the location is unknown. Much of the early history of Zactarn has been lost over the ages due to various reasons. For example, the oldest parts of the city are actually build much closer to the surface. These parts have been rebuild and repurposed many times throughout the history of the city. Therefore, some of the more well preserved parts of the city lie deeper within the mountain home. However, the parts of the city that lie the deepest have mostly been abandoned and partially collapsed. This due to the fact that many dwarves left Zactarn for greener pastures, with this many parts of the city were neglected. 
Due to many people leaving the character of the fortress also changed. With the relatively few dwarves that did stay behind, were often more religious. Seeing the city as a holy site to dwarvenkind. This has led to the development of a highly religious city ruled by a theocracy. Who see it as their goal to protect the city from any hostile influences. They also wish to uncover the old parts of the city, thinking that great artefacts or knowledge about the ancient Oristi might be found there. The rulers of Zactarn are also trying to revitalize the city by attracting more dwarves back to the place, often under the guise of tradition. Claiming that a true dwarf seeks out their roots. This has led to the creation and promotion of pilgrimages to the site.
Category:Alex
Category:Dwarves
Category:Cities