Part 2/8:
In its earlier incarnation, Minas Ithil symbolized hope and protection for the Numenoreans of Gondor during the Second Age. Founded in 3320 of this era by the faithful exiles of Numenor, under the shelter of the shadowy mountains, it was initially a city of striking beauty. The architecture shone with the lustrous white marble, capturing the essence of the moonlight, filling the city with an ethereal glow.
Minas Ithil served a strategic purpose — it was built to guard Gondor’s eastern borders, keeping a watchful eye on the growing malevolence creeping from Mordor. However, darkness loomed as Sauron, having returned to Mordor, was beginning to gather strength.