The Bloody Gate stands as a crucial fortification in the Vale of Arryn, guarding the high road that leads into the Vale proper from the rugged Mountains of the Moon. Located southwest of the Eyrie and northwest of the Redfort, the Bloody Gate is an essential defense against mountain clansmen and invading armies.
This formidable structure consists of two long parapets built into the stone of the Mountains of the Moon. The high road narrows significantly at the gate, allowing passage for only four riders abreast, ensuring a controlled and defensible point of entry. Twin watchtowers, connected by a covered grey stone bridge arching above the road, oversee this narrow passage. These towers, along with the bridge and battlements, are equipped with arrow slits, enabling defenders to rain arrows upon any approaching foes.
Beyond the Bloody Gate lies a steep, rocky trail descending into the Vale, further complicating any assault on the gate. Ravens are kept at the gate for communication, and the stables house shaggy, sure-footed mountain horses suitable for the treacherous terrain. The gate can provide refuge for several thousand men, making it a significant stronghold.
The Knight of the Gate, the commander of the fortification, traditionally challenges all who seek to pass with the question, "Who would pass the Bloody Gate?" This ritual underscores the gate's role as a vigilant guardian of the Vale. A septon is also present at the gate, offering spiritual support to the defenders.
Historically, the Bloody Gate began as a rough-hewn unmortared wall in the style of the First Men's ringforts. It was reconstructed during the rule of Osric V Arryn, King of Mountain and Vale, to its current formidable state. During the Age of Heroes, a dozen armies shattered against the Bloody Gate's defenses, a testament to its impregnability. Notably, Halleck Hoare, King of the Isles and the Rivers, failed three times to conquer this fortification.
The Bloody Gate remains a symbol of the Vale's strength and resilience, standing as a sentinel against threats from the mountains and beyond.
This formidable structure consists of two long parapets built into the stone of the Mountains of the Moon. The high road narrows significantly at the gate, allowing passage for only four riders abreast, ensuring a controlled and defensible point of entry. Twin watchtowers, connected by a covered grey stone bridge arching above the road, oversee this narrow passage. These towers, along with the bridge and battlements, are equipped with arrow slits, enabling defenders to rain arrows upon any approaching foes.
Beyond the Bloody Gate lies a steep, rocky trail descending into the Vale, further complicating any assault on the gate. Ravens are kept at the gate for communication, and the stables house shaggy, sure-footed mountain horses suitable for the treacherous terrain. The gate can provide refuge for several thousand men, making it a significant stronghold.
The Knight of the Gate, the commander of the fortification, traditionally challenges all who seek to pass with the question, "Who would pass the Bloody Gate?" This ritual underscores the gate's role as a vigilant guardian of the Vale. A septon is also present at the gate, offering spiritual support to the defenders.
Historically, the Bloody Gate began as a rough-hewn unmortared wall in the style of the First Men's ringforts. It was reconstructed during the rule of Osric V Arryn, King of Mountain and Vale, to its current formidable state. During the Age of Heroes, a dozen armies shattered against the Bloody Gate's defenses, a testament to its impregnability. Notably, Halleck Hoare, King of the Isles and the Rivers, failed three times to conquer this fortification.
The Bloody Gate remains a symbol of the Vale's strength and resilience, standing as a sentinel against threats from the mountains and beyond.
