White HarborIndex | HomePage | Settings | WhiteHarbor Of the five cities of Westeros, White Harbor is the smallest; roughly the size of Gulltown. However, due to its position at the mouth of the White Knife, the city holds a great deal more importance to the North than one would assume for its size. The majority of trade and contact with the southern realms is focused in White Harbor, thus providing the city with a cosmopolitan atmosphere. This worldly aspect is also reflected in population itself and many races and cultures can be found wandering the city’s cobbled streets. The topography of the city is of a crag and tail nature; a high promontory with a “tail” of softer earth that forms a tampered ramp. Miles of white beaches stretch in both directions, providing the city with its namesake. The mouth of the White Knife empties out into the harbor here as well, running northward towards Long Lake and the Wolfswood. Barges can be taken upriver almost to the doors of Winterfell. This vital river-based connection to the north provides further trade opportunities for the city. It has also filled the coffers of House Manderly considerably. The center of White Harbor is Craghall, a massive edifice of stone overlooking the harbor from atop a promontory of volcanic rock. King Jon Stark raised the castle after driving sea raiders back into the sea several generations ago. Protected on three sides by sheer cliffs and limited access on the fourth side has assured the security of Craghall since its construction. The city of White Harbor stretches out behind Craghall, as well as around its base. There are three main sections of the city: the Reach, Rivertown, and the Spear Docks. The Reach runs down the “tail” behind Craghall. Nobles, aristocrats, and wealthier merchants populate this maze of opulent buildings, many of which date back to the city’s founding. The Reach is named in honor of the Manderlys former lands, which they were driven from a thousand years ago. Rivertown is the warren of buildings and shops that line either side of the White Knife, as well as the sloping side of the “tail.” The majority of the city’s population is situated here, where they can make a descent living compared to other cities in Westeros. Many live on barges or boats, which also serve as their source of livelihood. Virtually any trade can be found in Rivertown, including silver-working (several renown silversmiths reside in White Harbor). Rivertown is dominated by two spectacular feats of engineering: White Bridge (a stone bridge that crosses the river with arches high enough to allow boat travel) and the Mander Fields (a grandiose tournament ground to accommodate the Manderlys exuberant sense of chivalry). Finally, Spear Docks is a series of docks that run along the mouth of the river and stretch out into the harbor. Due to the prolific fish population, many fishermen can actually make a living with a simple spear and a good aim; hence the name. Seafood and fish are shipped across Westeros in casks filled with salt and seaweed. Many of the great northern Houses serve White Harbor fish as a delicacy. Of the three sections of the city, the Spear Docks are the poorest in sanitation and safety. The sewers from the Reach and Rivertown congregate here to take advantage of the tide. As such, during summer, the smell of dead fish and polluted water can be unspeakable. Also, although merchants maintain enclosed docks and guarded warehouses, shady dealings are commonplace and the city guard is scarce. Crime festers here with little relief to be had. |
