Heortland

Heortland is a fictional region featured in J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth legendarium. It is primarily known as the ancestral homeland of the Rohirrim, the horse-lords of Rohan. Located to the west of the Misty Mountains and south of the River Running, Heortland was a fertile and sprawling plain. Its geographical features included rolling grasslands, forests, and the River Isen, which formed its western border. The region was a vital part of the kingdom of Gondor for centuries before being granted to the ancestors of the Rohirrim by the Stewards of Gondor as a reward for their aid in battles against the Easterlings.

The name Heortland itself is derived from Old English, reflecting Tolkien's linguistic influences. "Heort" meaning "heart" and "land" meaning "land," suggesting it was considered a core or central territory. This area was where theermark of the Rohirrim was established, and it witnessed the rise and fall of many lords and kings of Rohan. The vast plains were ideal for their equestrian lifestyle, shaping their culture and military prowess. Over time, the name Heortland became less commonly used in favor of simply "Rohan" as the kingdom solidified its identity. However, its historical significance as the birthplace of the Rohirrim remains a key element in the history of Middle-earth.