Thorbardin

Thorbardin is a fictional dwarven realm in the Dragonlance fantasy setting. It is a vast subterranean kingdom located beneath the mountains of Ansalon, the continent where most of Dragonlance events unfold. Thorbardin serves as the ancestral homeland of many dwarven clans and functions as a central political and cultural hub for the dwarven people.

It comprises a network of underground citadels, halls, forges, and temples carved from stone and ore. The economy rests on mining, smithing, and stonework, with master smiths and runic artisans shaping weapons, armor, and artifacts. The realm is known for its intricate tunnel systems, expansive forges, and formidable fortifications.

Historically, Thorbardin has been governed by a leadership drawn from dwarven houses and often ruled by a sovereign or council that seeks to balance clan interests. The dwarves have faced internal factionalism and external threats, including wars with enemies from above and surrounding lands. The nation has experienced periods of isolation and renewed alliances, shaping its political dynamics within the wider Dragonlance world.

In fiction, Thorbardin appears in numerous Dragonlance novels and game supplements. It serves as a stage for political intrigue, epic battles, and explorations of underground cultures. The lore surrounding Thorbardin has shaped dwarven identity in the Dragonlance setting and provided a backdrop for adventures involving diplomacy, treasure-seeking, and defense against subterranean foes.

References to Thorbardin appear in Dragonlance sourcebooks and novels, where it is depicted as a cornerstone of dwarven civilization within the world of Krynn.