On the interactive atlas
Coordinates shown here are approximate, marking this place on the shared atlas map for orientation rather than cartography. It sits on the Second Age layer.
View on the interactive atlas →Geography
A star-shaped island raised in the western sea, with a central mountain, the Meneltarma, and green provinces about a great haven at Rómenna.
History
Given to the Edain as reward for their war against Morgoth. Its kings grew mighty and then proud, envying the immortality of the Elves, until Ar-Pharazôn sailed against Valinor. Númenor was overwhelmed by the sea.
People & inhabitants
The Dúnedain in their first and greatest kingdom.
Significance
The Downfall is the legendarium’s great moral lesson about the desire for immortality and the abuse of power.
Connections
Only a few escaped east to found Gondor and Arnor; Elendil and Isildur were among them.
Events here
Figures of this place
Elendil
Survivor of Númenor and first High King of the Dúnedain in Middle-earth, who founded Gondor and Arnor.
Isildur
King of Gondor and Arnor who cut the One Ring from Sauron’s hand, then kept it and was slain by Orcs.
CharacterSauron
A Maia and former lieutenant of Morgoth, forger of the One Ring and the central antagonist of The Lord of the Rings.
Sources
The Silmarillion · 1977
Posthumously edited. Contains the Ainulindalë, Valaquenta, Quenta Silmarillion, Akallabêth and Of the Rings of Power.
Unfinished Tales · 1980
Expanded and alternative accounts of the First, Second and Third Ages.