Kryta
The enduring heart of human civilization in Tyria, a land of ancient cities and dragon-scarred skies.
Kryta stands as the heart of human civilization within Tyria, a sprawling and diverse region that serves as the primary setting for much of the Guild Wars 2 narrative. Once united under the banner of the Charr during the First War, it has since evolved into a collection of sovereign territories, most notably the Lion's Arch trade hub and the capital city of Rata Sum, though the latter is actually Ascalon territory; correction: Kryta includes the Shiverpeaks borderlands, the verdant plains of Kessex Hills, and the coastal cities like Divinity's Reach. It is the ancestral home of the human race in Tyria and the seat of power for the Order of Whispers and the Lionguard.
- Inhabitants
- Humans (Predominantly), various races
- Key Cities
- Divinity's Reach, Lion's Arch
- Political Status
- Sovereign Human Territories under the Lion's Guard
- Major Threats
- The Elder Dragons, The Pact, Chaos
- Geography
- Coastal plains, forests, and mountain foothills
Lore & Background
Despite its status as a bastion of human culture, Kryta is far from homogeneous. It hosts diverse populations and serves as a melting pot where different races interact daily in bustling markets like Lion's Arch. The land itself bears the scars of ancient battles, with ruins of the Old Ones and remnants of Mordremoth's corruption still visible in certain sectors. Yet, it remains a beacon of hope and reconstruction, constantly rebuilding its cities and fortifying its borders against the encroaching darkness that threatens to swallow Tyria whole.
In Their Own Story
The salt spray of Lion's Arch clung to Elara's cloak as she watched the massive gates swing open for another day. Below, the harbor bustled with Charr merchants haggling over crates of Ascalonian grain and Sylvari traders exchanging rare flora. High above, a patrol of Pact soldiers scanned the horizon, their eyes fixed on the distant clouds that often hid the shadow of an Elder Dragon. It was a fragile peace, built on blood and sacrifice, but as long as Divinity's Reach stood tall against the encroaching dark, Kryta would endure.
Reader's Guide
Kryta is characterized by its temperate climate, featuring lush forests in the Kessex Hills and rolling plains near the capital. The region transitions from dense woodlands to open farmlands and rugged coastal cliffs. Key landmarks include Divinity's Reach, a magnificent city built around an ancient tower, and Lion's Arch, a massive stone gateway connecting the continent to the rest of Tyria. Wildlife ranges from common deer and wolves to more dangerous creatures like winter foxes in the northern reaches. During world events, the region often sees increased activity as players defend against dragon minions or participate in large-scale rallies. Story arcs frequently shift the political landscape, with areas becoming contested zones during invasions by the Scarlet Briar or Mordremoth's forces.
Did You Know?
- Divinity's Reach was founded on the site of an ancient human stronghold that survived the First War.
- Lion's Arch serves as the primary trade hub and neutral ground for all races in Tyria.
- The region is home to the Order of Whispers, a secretive organization dedicated to maintaining peace.
More in Regions & Maps
Elsewhere in the Guild Wars 2 universe
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