Solitude

Solitude is the capital of Skyrim and the largest city in the province. It sits on top of an enormous natural stone arch high above the mouth of the Karth River, looking out over the Sea of Ghosts. As the seat of the High King and the headquarters of the Imperial Legion in Skyrim, it is the heart of the Empire’s power in the north.

Highlights

• The Blue Palace – home of Jarl Elisif the Fair, the young widow of the murdered High King Torygg.
• Castle Dour – headquarters of the Imperial Legion and General Tullius.
• The Bards College – where Skyrim’s bards learn their craft, and where you can join their questline.
• The Winking Skeever – the city’s inn, where you meet Malborn.
• The Temple of the Divines, Radiant Raiment and plenty of other shops.
• The docks and Katla’s Farm below the city, with the East Empire Company warehouse and the stables.

Role in the story

In Diplomatic Immunity you meet Malborn here and Delphine at Katla’s Farm before heading up to the Thalmor Embassy in the nearby mountains. Solitude is also the Imperial capital in the civil war – and the final target if you join the Stormcloaks.

Good to know

• Most players arrive to an execution in the square. Welcome to Solitude.
• Proudspire Manor can be bought here once you are friendly with the jarl.