Maen-Harz

Maen-Harz are stone monuments, typically taking the form of Menhirs or elaborately carved sculptures. These are most commonly found in the Fortunate Isles, the Armorican and Cotentin Peninsulas, and along the Coast of Light in Northern Akitania. In all these regions, Maen-Harz are used to mark the boundaries of settlements.   Originally existing as primarily legal or symbolic symbols to mark boundaries, they have long since become infused with magical meaning, gaining power from the flow of the Hud through and around them. Some Fae will not, or cannot cross these boundaries without certain requirements being met. Moving or defacing these stones can weaken their magical protections, or cause a calamitous backlash.

The Maen-Harz, or Boundary Stones, originated in the Misty Times, created by the Druids of the Path of the Forest. It was discovered that the Fair Folk were heavily influenced by the concept of Sovereignty and the division of lands along metaphysical lines. The Kornikaned, for example, would rarely venture out beyond certain points in their territory, and not cross certain lines. These boundaries were formally demarcated with marker stones, establishing the boundaries of communities, farmland and other areas of control.   The Maen-Harz were widespread in both Albia and The Armorican Peninsula and were used heavily during the tumultuous Misty Times to establish zones of safety. The practice was appropriated and adapted by The Church of the Four, carving (or vandalizing) these monumental stones with religious iconography of its own cosmology. Many Maen-Harz are contained within the Parish Close as a result of this, marking the social heart of the settlement and the boundary between public and private spaces.

It is widely accepted that the stones serve as a threshold for fending of evil spirits and some Fae, as well as the channeling of the Hud. Maen-Harz also serve the mundane purpose of marking the boundaries of settlements.  

Notable Maen-Harz

 

The Lantern of the Dead - A unique Maen-Harz, marking the entry to a burial ground. Ranging from 1 to seven meters in height, these square-based granite columns are lit by a flame or alchemical lantern housed in its cap. These are typically relit on Kalan-Goañv, Kala-Hañv, Emwalc'h and Gouel Eost.

The Andennspire - A massive Maen-Harz carved to resemble Elouan the Lanternholder. It is located at the mouth of the Liger River near Naoned