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The West Gate of Moria: A Symbol of Friendship and Craftsmanship
In the expansive universe created by J.R.R. Tolkien, there are many architectural marvels and epic tales that transport us to eras of greatness, as well as moments of friendship and cooperation among peoples. This is particularly true of the deep-rooted rivalry famously depicted between the dwarves and elves in "The Lord of the Rings." However, there was a time when the bonds between these two races were strong enough to allow the Elves of Eregion to leave their mark on the grand Dwarven realm of Khazad-dûm. Today, we'll delve into the story of the West Gate of Moria, also known as Durin's Door, one of the most beautiful creations of the Dwarves, symbolizing an era of collaboration between elves and dwarves.
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The Location and Purpose of Durin's Door
Located on the western side of the Misty Mountains, this gate serves not just as an entryway into the ancient Kingdom of Khazad-dûm but also as a testament to the friendship between two master artisans: Celebrimbor of Eregion and Narvi of Khazad-dûm. Celebrimbor, an illustrious Elven craftsman and descendant of Fëanor, played a significant role in this collaboration, while Narvi was renowned as a master Dwarven craftsman.
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This friendship thrived well before the awakening of the Balrog, during a happier time when elves and dwarves were on amicable terms. As Gandalf noted when the Fellowship faced the gates of Durin, “Here ends the road of the Elves.” The symbol of the rowan tree was planted here by the elves to mark the end of their domain, as the West Gate was intended primarily for their use, facilitating trade with the lords of Moria.
Craftsmanship and Artistic Elements
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The construction of the West Gate represents a pinnacle of artistry, crafted between the years of 750 and 1500 of the Second Age. The intricate designs were made from a material called ithildin, a precious alloy created by the elves using mithril, a metal highly valued by the dwarves of Khazad-dûm. This material's rarity was emphasized by its origins solely in Moria and the lost realm of Nargothrond, making the gate not only a visual marvel but also durably resistant to time's ravages.
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What makes Durin’s Door particularly interesting is its clever concealment; from the outside, it appears as a solid rock face of the mountain until one approaches to utter its magical password. The upper portion of the door showcases a seven-star crown—a nod to Durin’s vision that led to the foundation of Khazad-dûm—while the lower section features a hammer and anvil, symbolizing the artistry of Celebrimbor, echoed alongside two trees that represent the Two Trees of Valinor, hallmark symbols of Elven heritage.
Mystical Inscriptions and Secret Passwords
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Inscribed at the top of the door in Tengwar (Elvish script) are representations of Celebrimbor's and Narvi's initials, along with a phrase that translates to “The Doors of Durin, Lords of Moria, Speak, friend, and enter.” This phrase signifies that the gate was initially designed as an inviting passage for the elves, with a password that was relatively straightforward for them. However, for outsiders, this password became a riddle to solve, leading to delayed access—an instance of Gandalf's struggles years later, where it took him time to discern the correct word to open the door.
The Fate of the West Gate
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As time passed, the West Gate remained open during a peaceful era, facilitating the free movement between dwarves and elves. Yet, this harmony shattered when Sauron’s forces attacked Eregion during the forging of the Rings and subsequently destroyed the Elven city, rendering the door closed for centuries. Eventually, the Fellowship of the Ring opened the gate once again in the Third Age, but tragedy struck when a monstrous creature, the Watcher in the Water, collapsed the structure, sealing it forever.
Legacy of Friendship and Cooperation
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The friendship between Celebrimbor and Narvi mirrors a time when dwarves and elves worked together harmoniously, resulting in a creation that became an iconic gateway in Middle-earth. The West Gate of Moria remains a poignant reminder of that union, showcasing how collaboration can create marvels that withstand time and darkness. Even amid war and distrust, the spirit of cooperation can yield beautiful legacies that inspire future generations.
This door is more than just an entrance; it stands as a monument to friendship, art, and the uniting of diverse peoples in pursuit of greatness. As we reflect on this tale, we are reminded of the potential for unity and shared vision, regardless of differences, to forge wonders that last across time.