The Downfall of Númenor

The Hallow of Eru is a sacred and holy shrine that was revered by the Númenóreans. It was the only place of reverence in Númenor before the coming of Sauron. The shrine was sacred to the Númenóreans as a holy place devoted to Eru Ilúvatar. No one was allowed set foot upon the Hallow of Eru. Only the King was allowed to be at the shrine to utter prayers and thanksgivings to Eru Ilúvatar, during the feasts of Erukyermë, Erulaitalë and Eruhantalë. Birds and animals did not approach the site, and only the Eagles of Manwë were seen circling over the shrine. Near the summit of Meneltarma, the kings had built a spiral road leading to the shrine, beginning at the southern tip of the mountain and winding up to the lip of the shrine. The shrine was flattened and somehow depressed, which was so broad that it was able to contain a great multitude during religious ceremonies. It was said that on a clear day the 'far-sighted' might see Tol Eressëa.

A panoramic view of the flattened and expansive Hallow of Eru at the summit of Meneltarma, surrounded by misty peaks and with a clear sky revealing the distant silhouette of Tol Eressëa; a winding spiral path leading up to the shrine, lined with ancient stones, while majestic Eagles circle overhead.