Meneltarma
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In Tolkien's Middle-earth, Meneltarma, meaning Pillar of the Heavens, was a sacred mountain in the centre of Númenor. It was named 'Minûltarîk' in Adûnaic.
It had a flattened and broad summit, able to contain a great multitude during religious ceremonies. However no permanent structure was erected there, and the ceremonies took place in open air.
A requirement of absolute silence was imposed on any who climbed the mountain. The tradition was so strong and universal that even foreigners felt bound by it. Only the King was allowed to utter prayers and thanksgivings to Eru Ilúvatar, during the feasts of Erukyermë, Erulaitalë and Eruhantalë.
Birds and animals did not approach the site, and only the Eagles of Manwë were seen circling over the summit. They were also regarded as sacred guardians of the mountain and all the land.
The base of Meneltarma sloped gently and divided itself into five roots reaching out towards the five divisions of the land. These roots were called Tarmasundar, the Roots of the Pillar. On the southern slopes were located the tombs of Kings and Queens of Númenor, in a valley called Noirinan.
In the year 3319 of the Second Age, Númenor was destroyed and sank in the ocean. The last Queen of the island realm tried to ascend the Meneltarma during the Downfall, but the waters overtook her before she could reach the Hallow on the summit.
It was rumored by those of the seed of Eärendil that the top of the holy mountain rose once more from the sea. Legend has it that should any find this island, they may catch glimpses of the Undying Lands.
| Mountains from J. R. R. Tolkien's legendarium | |
|---|---|
| Ranges: | Crissaegrim | Echoriath | Ephel Dúath | Ered Engrin | Ered Gorgoroth | Ered Lithui | Ered Luin | Ered Lómin | Ered Mithrin | Ered Nimrais | Ered Wethrin | Hithaeglir | Iron Hills | Orocarni | Mountains of Angmar | Pelóri |
| Notable peaks: | Amon Anwar | Caradhras | Celebdil | Erebor | Fanuidhol | Meneltarma | Methedras | Mindolluin | Mount Dolmed | Mount Gram | Mount Gundabad | Mount Rerir | Orodruin | Starkhorn | Taniquetil | Thangorodrim |
| Notable passes: | Aglon | Calacirya | Cirith Gorgor | Cirith Ungol | Cirith Forn en Andrath | Redhorn Pass |
