Mirkwood

Mirkwood is a large forest in northwestern Middle-earth, historically known as Greenwood the Great. It stretched across much of western Eriador before a period of shadow and decay that began with Sauron’s return and the establishment of Dol Guldur in its southern reaches. After this corruption the forest came to be known as Mirkwood, a name that reflected its darkened reputation. In the later legends the western portion of the forest is associated with the Woodland Realm, where the Wood-elves maintain a realm with their capital and halls in the heart of the woods.

Geographically, Mirkwood lies east of the Misty Mountains and forms a substantial barrier and frontier region between the western lands and the more eastern parts of the continent. The forest is famed for its deep shadows, winding paths, and enchantments that can mislead travelers. It is home to various dangers, notably the Great Spiders of Mirkwood, as well as the Wood-elves who guard their borders and live in harmony with the forest’s ancient trees.

Inhabitants and governance center on the Wood-elves under the Elvenking, commonly identified with Thranduil in the tales. The elves' halls, fortifications, and patrols within Mirkwood reflect a blend of hospitality and vigilance toward outsiders. The forest also plays a notable role in several core works, appearing in The Hobbit as the dwarves’ perilous passage and in later lore as part of the broader history of the Woodland Realm. After the War of the Ring, some texts refer to the forest by the elf-name Eryn Lasgalen, meaning the Forest of Green Leaves.