Thedas

Thedas is a fictional continent and the primary setting of the Dragon Age fantasy universe, developed by BioWare. It is a world where magic, religion, and politics intersect across diverse cultures and nations. Thedas is inhabited by humans, elves, dwarves, and the Qunari, among others, and its history blends ancient civilizations, political intrigue, and conflict across a variety of regions.

Geography and political divisions in Thedas include Ferelden, Orlais, the Tevinter Imperium, Nevarra, the Free Marches, Antiva, Anderfels, and the Dales. The Dalish elves and the dwarven civilizations of the Deep Roads are important groups within Thedas, while the Qunari originate from Par Vollen and interact with Thedas in various ways. The continent’s political landscape is characterized by shifting alliances, wars, and dynastic ambitions.

Religion and magic are central to Thedas. The Chantry, a dominant religious institution venerating the Maker, wields considerable political influence over many realms. Mages are traditionally regulated through Circles of Magi and the Templar Order, which act as guardians and enforcers; those who defy these structures risk demonic possession from the Fade, a parallel realm of dreams and demons that powers much of the magical background.

Thedas faces enduring magical and existential threats, including the Blight, a demon invasion led by Darkspawn, and ongoing tensions among mages, templars, nobles, and various ethnic groups. The Grey Wardens are a loosely organized order dedicated to containing such threats and safeguarding the world.

Thedas has a rich lore across games and related media, with extensive histories of its peoples, factions, ruins, and magical traditions that drive exploration, governance, and moral choices.