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Still some miles away, on the far side of the Westfold Vale, lay a green coomb, a great bay in the mountains, out of which a gorge opened in the hills. Men of that land called it Helm’s Deep, after a hero of old wars who had made his refuge there. Ever steeper and narrower it wound inward from the north under the shadow of the Thrihyrne, till the crow-haunted cliffs rose like mighty towers on either side, shutting out the light.
- The Two Towers (Book 3), Chapter 7
Named after the legendary Helm Hammerhand, this formidable stronghold is situated in a deep, natural gorge within the White Mountains, strategically positioned below the peak of Thrihyrne in the Westfold region. The rugged terrain and steep cliffs offer a natural defense, making it an ideal site for fortification.
At the head of the Westfold Vale lies a profound gorge that has served as a crucial defensive location throughout history. Flanked by steep, rugged cliffs, this deep ravine is further secured by human construction. At the lower edge of the gorge stands a formidable gateway, reinforced by the Deeping Wall and the Hornburg, creating an impregnable stronghold against invaders.
Originally established during the Second Age by the Númenórea sea-kings, the fortress was known as the Fortress of Aglarond, or "Glittering Caves" in Sindarin, reflecting the stunning, glistening caverns within the structure. The significance of this stronghold was solidified after Steward Cirion of Gondor gifted the province of Calenardhon to King Eorl, leading to its restoration and fortification, known to the Rohirrim as Suthburg.
During the Long Winter, Helm Hammerhand sought refuge within its walls, defending Rohan against a prolonged siege. His steadfast leadership earned the fortress a new name, honoring his legacy and the enduring strength of the stronghold.
Governance of the fortress at Helm’s Deep, particularly during times of crisis, was under the purview of prominent local leaders. Erkenbrand, the Lord of Deeping-coomb and extensive lands in the Westfold, was the chief lord of the West-mark. Following the death of Théodred in the First Battle of the Fords of Isen, Erkenbrand took command of the West-mark, inheriting the crucial role of protecting the region. His leadership was highly regarded, with King Théoden noting that Erkenbrand’s valor echoed that of Helm Hammerhand, the legendary figure for whom the stronghold was named. Under Erkenbrand’s guidance, Helm’s Deep remained a symbol of steadfast defense and resilience in Rohan.
The Two Towers (Book 3)
