'LOTR: Rings of Power' Season 2: What is Khazad-dûm? Here's everything you need to know about the subterranean city
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Peter Jackson’s 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy masterfully captured the essence of J R R Tolkien’s epic book, meeting the high expectations of fans.
Prime’s prequel series 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' offers a promising opportunity to address these shortcomings by delving deeper into Dwarven culture and their pivotal role in Middle-earth’s history.
The series explores their involvement in the first battle against Sauron, highlighting a new dimension to their story. By expanding the Dwarves's narrative and showcasing their integral part in the war alongside Men and Elves, 'The Rings of Power' aims to enrich the legacy of Tolkien's world.
A journey to the heart of Middle-earth 'Khazad-dûm' in 'The Rings of Power'
'The Rings of Power' transports viewers back to the magnificent underground kingdom of Khazad-dûm, known to fans of 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' as Moria.
While Moria is depicted as a desolate ruin in 'The Fellowship of the Ring', 'The Rings of Power' reveals the kingdom in its prime, showcasing the Dwarves's historic homeland in all its splendor.
In J R R Tolkien's 'The Silmarillion', Khazad-dûm was founded by the ancient Dwarf leader Durin during the 'Years of Trees,' before the arrival of Men. Carved into the Misty Mountains, this subterranean city became a thriving center for blacksmiths and miners, reflecting the Dwarves' exceptional craftsmanship.
Although later strained, the early relationship between the Dwarves of Khazad-dûm and the Elves was amicable. Their enmity towards Orcs, however, grew from repeated invasions. 'The Rings of Power' offers a unique glimpse into this rich history, setting it apart from previous adaptations.
Khazad-dûm's rise as a stronghold against evil in 'The Rings of Power'
'The Rings of Power' explores a pivotal alliance between the Dwarves of Khazad-dûm and the Elves of Eregion, led by Celebrimbor (Charles Edwards). This alliance significantly bolsters Khazad-dûm’s defenses, with the construction of protective structures, including the iconic bridge seen in 'The Fellowship of the Ring'.
These defenses become crucial when Sauron’s forces, determined to annihilate the surviving Elves, turn their attention to Khazad-dûm. During this critical period in the Second Age, Khazad-dûm is ruled by King Durin III (Peter Mullan) and his son, Durin IV (Owain Arthur).
Durin III, one of the seven Dwarf-lords, is gifted a Ring of Power, which he passes on to his descendants. This period of collaboration between Dwarves and Elves, rare in Tolkien’s legendarium, adds depth to 'The Rings of Power', showcasing the Dwarves not just as isolated miners but as strategic allies with a vested interest in the broader fight against Sauron’s evil.
The rise and fall of Khazad-dûm
The peace and prosperity of Khazad-dûm are shattered when the Dwarves dig too deep and awaken the Balrog, an ancient monster created by Morgoth, Sauron’s predecessor. This fiery demon wreaks havoc on the city, forcing the Dwarves to abandon their once-glorious homeland, which is thereafter known as Moria.
The Balrog’s destructive power nearly annihilates Khazad-dûm, transforming it into a stronghold for Sauron’s minions, including goblins, cave-trolls, and Orcs. The surviving Dwarves flee to the kingdoms of the Misty Mountains, but even there, they are not safe.
Their new home is later besieged by the dragon Smaug, leading to yet another displacement. This tragic tale, central to 'The Rings of Power', highlights the Dwarves’s ongoing struggle for a stable homeland and adds a layer of poignancy to their history as portrayed in 'The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings'.
'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power' Season 2 trailer
