Stormwind City

Stormwind City (a.k.a. New Stormwind or simply Stormwind), located north of Elwynn Forest on Azeroth region's northwest coast, is the capital city of the kingdom of Stormwind and the largest human city on Azeroth. After the Third War, it has become one of the last great human cities, and embodies the heart of the Alliance.

No city better demonstrates human determination than Stormwind. Destroyed during the Horde's initial invasion of Azeroth, Stormwind was painstakingly reconstructed by the Stonemasons' Guild after the Second War. Parts of the city were razed again when Deathwing, the corrupted black Dragon Aspect, brutally attacked Stormwind, but the other undamaged districts are more beautiful than ever thanks to their hardworking inhabitants. From the magnificent Cathedral of Light, which serves as a major spiritual hub, to the awe-inspiring Valley of Heroes, which commemorates the sacrifices of Stormwind's loyal champions, the city truly represents the courageous heart of humanity.

Early history
The kingdom of Stormwind was originally founded 1,200 years before the First War by the descendants of the Arathi bloodline, who had migrated south from the nation of Arathor. Traveling past the rocky mountains of Khaz Modan, their journey finally ended after many long seasons, and they settled in the northern region of the continent they would name Azeroth. In a fertile valley, they founded the kingdom of Stormwind, which quickly became a self-sufficient power in its own right. It had a long and prosperous history, with the king served loyally by the knights of the Brotherhood of the Horse and the clerics of the Holy Order of Northshire Clerics. Secretive conjurers also served the kingdom, and as such Stormwind Keep had its own court conjurer.

The constant bickering and infighting that marred the rules of the former kings of Arathor had no place in the court of Wrynn, and all had been peaceful for many generations in the kingdom until the Gnoll War. King Barathen Wrynn ended the conflict by scattering the unified gnoll packs and bringing back peace, solidifying the rule of the Wrynn dynasty over the entire kingdom.

Following the Gnoll War, the Kingdom of Stormwind began expanding its borders, much to the displeasure of the Gurubashi jungle troll tribes. A series of smaller conflicts between the two factions erupted over time, largely over the territories bordering Stranglethorn Vale that Stormwindian settlers began expanding into. Though initially isolated, the conflict quickly escalated out of control, despite the best efforts of Stormwind's King Barathen Wrynn. The final provocation came when Prince Llane Wrynn personally led a small party to strike at the Gurubashi leadership in central Stranglethorn, which succeeded in uniting the trolls against Stormwind. Though costly and close-run, the human kingdom eventually emerged victorious, largely due to the intervention of the Guardian Medivh. With the entire troll army completely destroyed or routed at the gates of Stormwind City, the jungle trolls of the south would never succeed in threatening the kingdom again. This bloody conflict was known as the Gurubashi War, and the Stormwindians enjoyed nearly two decades of relative peace after emerging victorious. King Barathen was one of the casualties of the Gurubashi War, and Llane succeeded him as king in the aftermath of the war.

First War
When reports of mysterious creatures lurking around the Black Morass reached Stormwind, rumors spread through the streets that they were either vengeful spirits, trolls armed with some new breed of power, or a strange race from across the Great Sea. King Llane dispatched Sir Anduin Lothar to uncover what these new creatures were. Lothar led a small force of knights to scout the Black Morass, resulting in the Knights of Stormwind clashing with orcs for the first time in a series of bloody skirmishes. He informed King Llane the invaders were bringing in reinforcements from somewhere, and the kingdom readied itself for a full-scale war that became known as the First War. Llane had named Lothar the "King's Champion", the highest military rank in the kingdom, and entrusted him to end the orcish threat.

After Brightwood, Westfall, and the Redridge Mountains had eventually fallen, the Horde marched onto Stormwind City. Thousands of Horde soldiers marched through Elwynn Forest and encircled Stormwind, cutting off all access except for the sea. Warchief Blackhand had ordered Kilrogg Deadeye and Cho'gall to lead their Bleeding Hollow and Twilight's Hammer clans in the assault on Stormwind. To weaken the city's defenses, siege engines bombarded the city walls through the night, and at dawn Kilrogg and Cho'gall launched their attack. While orcs charged the battlements, warlocks engulfed Stormwind's soldiers in fel fire, resulting in staggering losses. As it seemed Stormwind would fall that day, there were suddenly cries of an attack from the Horde's rear lines. Lothar and the majority of Stormwind's knights had moved around the Horde by sea. The King's Commander was now leading a charge through Elwynn Forest, catching the orcs in the rearguard completely by surprise as the knights cut through their lines. As the Bleeding Hollow and Twilight's Hammer tried to push back the knights, Stormwind's large gates opened and soldiers poured out of the city to flank the orcs in a counterattack. Outflanked on both sides and suffering many casualties, the orcs were left with no choice but to flee.

Around the year 3 or 4, King Llane was assassinated by Garona Halforcen in the keep. After his death, the city was overrun, razing it to ashes.

Anduin Lothar took what was left of the people and led their exodus to Lordaeron. While there, Alonsus Faol told him that he had started to raise funds to rebuilt Stormwind once they reclaimed it.

Second War
The ruins of Stormwind City were lorded over by the orcs of the Stormreaver clan.

Reconstruction
Following the Old Horde's defeat during the Second War, men returned to the ruins of Stormwind City and began to rebuild the once great city as a testament to their own survival. In time, Stormwind City was painstakingly reconstructed by the Stonemasons Guild, who were contracted by Stormwind's House of Nobles. They restored Stormwind to its former majesty, with white stone being used for its exterior. The city was renamed New Stormwind, rebuilt on the same location as the original capital, though after that the city came to be simply called Stormwind City once again.

The internment camps' authorities were based at first in New Stormwind under Danath Trollbane. Two years after the end of the Second War, the orcs reopened the Dark Portal and a small group led by Teron Gorefiend entered the city's library to steal the Book of Medivh. The book, however, had been at that point already stolen by Alterac soldiers and securely placed in the mountainous country.

During the early days of the Invasion of Draenor, Danath gathered all the mercenaries of Stormwind together and marched them to fight at Nethergarde Keep.

World of Warcraft
Stormwind City is a marvel of human design and engineering. From the magnificent Cathedral of Light, which serves as a major spiritual hub, to the awe-inspiring Valley of Heroes, which commemorates the sacrifices of Stormwind's loyal champions, the city truly represents the courageous heart of humanity. The Trade District bustles with trade from across the continent and beyond, while adventurers of every sort can be found wandering the streets of Old Town. Some merchants can be found carting their exotic wares on the cobblestone streets, such as those found in the Dwarven District. Another area of note is Stormwind Harbor, which acts as a dock for transport ships and a shipyard for the Alliance navy. Though the city is bustling with trade and business, Alliance citizens can also find peace and relaxation in the preserved natural local attractions of the city and the recreational activities available there. Tourists and children can be found playing and fishing around the various canals, docks, and lakes throughout the city. Many have even found tranquility outside the metropolitan districts in the more rural city outskirts. Racially diverse, heavily populated, an epicenter of culture and trade, Stormwind is acknowledged by many to be the very heart of the Alliance.

Stormwind firmly backs the Alliance with its knights, priests, paladins and mages; many of whom served in the three wars against the Horde and the Scourge. Primarily a human settlement, a fair number of high elves, Ironforge dwarves, and even a few night elves and gnomes dwell here as well. Stormwind City is the home of the Academy of Arcane Sciences, the only remaining school of wizardry in the east, and the Cathedral of Light, the philosophical capital for those who follow the Holy Light. These edifices draw healers, priests, paladins and mages to the city, all of whom bolster Stormwind's vast military. Its vigilant City Guard keep the peace within the city's towering stone walls and the elite Stormwind Royal Guard protect the monarchy and patrol the outlying region of Elwynn Forest on horseback. The House of Wrynn rules the city and kingdom from Stormwind Keep. Rumor has it that Wrynn employs a secret society of rogues known as 7, who are spies, assassins, and saboteurs wielding royal carte blanche. "Unaffected by the ravages of the Scourge in the north, Stormwind still faces its own threats, both from without and within."

During the first Scourge Invasion, the Scourge attacked Stormwind City, which later led to an Alliance counterattack. Bolvar Fordragon recruited Alliance heroes who raided Naxxramas and defeated Kel'Thuzad.

Prior to the start of the invasion of Outland, the gates of Stormwind were invaded by a group of Burning Legion demons led by Highlord Kruul.

Political unrest
Though Stormwind offered what support and resources they could to the war effort in Lordaeron, they were also beset by their own internal problems. A disagreement between the Stonemasons and the House of Nobles set off a violent riot in Stormwind City itself. The chaos led to the murder of Queen Tiffin Wrynn. In response, King Varian Wrynn vowed to punish those responsible and dealt with the rioters more severely. The Stonemasons, fleeing the city, hid in the rural areas of Westfall to escape prosecution. Knowing Varian's anger would never fade, many were forced to remain in hiding. The Stonemasons became the terrorist organization known as the Defias Brotherhood and sowed anarchy and terror in the lands of Stormwind for the next decade. King Varian, shaken by his wife's death, fell into a great depression. Lady Katrana Prestor took advantage of this opportunity and used politics and sorcery to politically outmaneuver the king in the coming years. Yet in time, King Varian slowly regained his political clout, with his son Anduin Wrynn being his primary inspiration.

After the dust had settled from the Third War, Varian journeyed to Theramore Isle to speak with Lady Jaina Proudmoore regarding Horde/Alliance relations. En route, he was abducted by the Defias who had been told of his diplomatic trip through a spy rumored to live within the Kingdom of Stormwind itself. Rumors circulated that he was taken to Alcaz Island and was held captive there. These rumors were true, yet they were also false, for Varian was split into two people after a botched ritual to subdue Varians' will conducted by Onyxia. While one of the twins retained all of his wits, charm, and patience, the other retained his will, ferocity, and skills in battle, where the latter escaped his captivity. For the past two years following his abduction, Varian was robbed of his memories and enslaved by a Horde gladiatorial trainer called Rehgar Earthfury in Kalimdor.

After King Varian Wrynn went missing under suspicious circumstances while en route to a diplomatic summit to Theramore, Stormwind was believed to be going through a state of disarray. Young Anduin was given the crown so that order could be preserved within the kingdom of Stormwind, at the behest of the royal councilor, Lady Prestor. Highlord Bolvar Fordragon acted as a kind of Regent of Stormwind or the Supreme Commander of Stormwind's forces on behalf of King Anduin, with Lady Prestor advising Bolvar on the proper use of Stormwind's resources. While Lord Bolvar did his best to aid King Anduin with ruling the Kingdom, Lady Prestor secretly worked to sow chaos and discord within the Kingdom behind the scenes while pretending to aid the young king in public.

During this time the second Varian fought his way across Kalimdor to freedom, earning the nickname “Lo'Gosh,” or “ghost wolf,” while battling in the Crimson Ring. Meanwhile in Stormwind, jubilant throngs of Stormwind's subjects turned out for a massive ceremony to welcome home their king. However, the Varian that returned was arrogant, frivolous, and markedly interested in Katrana Prestor. The people of Stormwind had only been informed that the Defias had ransomed the king, but in truth, he was somehow imprisoned and ransomed back by some naga. In either case, his freedom was bought and paid for by a painful new tax. Upon his return, however, Varian seemed concerned only with spending more of his people's money, leaving affairs of state by the wayside. Anduin Wrynn was distressed by his father's change.

Eventually, Lo'Gosh, with the help of his allies fought their way back to Stormwind. Marching through the gates of Stormwind, Lo'Gosh and his friends were halted by General Marcus Jonathan under the direct jurisdiction of Katrana Prestor, who ordered their immediate arrest and execution as traitors. One of Lo'Gosh's allies, known as Reginald Windsor, succeeded in convincing Marcus of his loyalty to Stormwind as they had previously served together under Turalyon.

Katrana Prestor hastily gathered soldiers only to have the false-Varian tell her that she was disobeying the chain of command and was not in charge of Stormwind. Entering Stormwind Keep, Lo'Gosh declared Katrana's masquerade was over and called her by her true name: Onyxia. Revealing her dragon form and transforming multiple guards into dragonspawn, Lo'Gosh and his allies began battle in the great hall of Stormwind Keep. The arrival of Highlord Bolvar Fordragon along with Anduin greatly aided them in securing the keep but Reginald Windsor was killed moments later by Onyxia.

Lo'Gosh engaged his doppelganger, claiming he threatened the stability of his kingdom and nearly cost the Alliance Thandol Span which came under attack by the Dark Iron dwarves while "Varian" did nothing, only to have his doppelganger retort he was starting to repress her spells and regain control of his actions. Anduin, surprised by seeing two Varians, urged them to stop fighting each other and face the true threat, the brood mother Onyxia. The great dragon snatched Anduin and teleported them to her lair; daring Varian to follow suit. Regrouping with their friends, Lo'Gosh and Varian were left to grieve the loss of their son. Lo'Gosh announced to their friends and allies that the final battle would end in Onyxia's Lair.

Leading a mounted charge, both Varians cut bloody swathes into Onyxia's dragonspawn ranks. Jaina Proudmoore disabled the impeding magical barriers while Varian and his allies used steel and magic to slay Onyxia's brood. Eventually, they encountered the brood mother herself, with Anduin imprisoned under her iron grip. Onyxia held Anduin hostage, threatening to kill him if Varian didn't surrender Stormwind over to her. Anduin urged his father not to give in to her threats and Lo'Gosh agreed to fight and die with Anduin if need be. Lo'Gosh threw a knife at the dragon's claw to loosen her hold over Anduin. Anduin fell at a great height but was caught and saved by Broll Bearmantle, who had taken his raven form to catch him mid-air. With Anduin's safety secured, both Varians engaged Onyxia with all of their might. Becoming desperate to end the fight, Onyxia began casting the spell she was going to use on Alcaz Island to kill Lo'Gosh, but Lo'Gosh's double responded by stepping in front of the blast, saying he should die because Lo'Gosh was the embodiment of the true Varian. Not willing to sacrifice his double, Lo'Gosh leapt alongside his other self hoping to save him. The magic spell became disrupted by having the two Varians in the spell, and after a moment of silence Varian emerged, his two halves fused back together.

Onyxia desperately tries to incinerate him, but Varian swiftly reached Onyxia's head and impaled her with his newly-fused elven sword, Shalamayne. With Onyxia dead, Varian reunited with his son and friends, telling them their long and noble deeds will be rewarded and Stormwind has been reborn with a new hope for the future. King Varian then decapitated Onyxia and sent her head to be hung from the ramparts of Stormwind while Broll Bearmantle summoned roots from the ground to seal her lair's entrance and to kill her unhatched progeny.

Scourge invasion
During the second Scourge Invasion, the city was once again attacked by the Scourge and later, their advance covered in mists, stormed Stormwind Harbor. King Varian created the Valiance Expedition to put an end to the Lich King. Members of the Horde and the Alliance launched separate campaigns in Northrend, and their efforts resulted in the Lich King's crushing defeat. Under King Varian's leadership, the humans of Stormwind led the Alliance to victory against the Lich King in Northrend.

After the death of the Lich King
Two events happened in Stormwind after the death of the Lich King. Firstly, the Emerald Nightmare invaded Azeroth and so invaded Stormwind City. Though many inhabitants were affected by the Nightmare, some, such as Varian, were able to avoid it. The king of Stormwind was asked to lead the fight against the Nightmare in the Emerald Dream and the battle was successful. After which, Stormwind City began to rebuild from the chaos caused by the War Against the Nightmare.

Later on, a great ceremony was held in honor of the thousands who died in the War against the Lich King.

Elemental unrest
Shortly before the Cataclysm, a meeting of the Alliance leaders was held in the Stormwind Keep to discuss the strange natural effects that have felt across the world, as well as to discuss on how to deal with the Twilight Hammer Cult and their talk of the end of the world. Not long after this, the city was attacked by furious elements made of Wind and Water but the attack was repelled and the city was secure.

Cataclysm


When Deathwing returned, he marked his revival by flying a trip around Azeroth. His massive power was enough to destroy and reshape the land where he appeared, which resulted in the shattering. Stormwind City got its share of the destruction when Deathwing swooped into it, crashed down on the city gates and wrecked parts of the city. The entire park was blown away, and his searing heat caused the towers where he landed to glow red. Afterward, he flew off, something which puzzles the city guards as they are certain he would be able to destroy the entire city if he had wanted to. Though Stormwind is still reeling from this brutal attack, the other undamaged districts are more beautiful than ever thanks to their hardworking inhabitants.

Unnoticed but to cats and ratcatchers, when Deathwing descended upon Stormwind all the rats beat a hasty retreat from the city. Only of late have they returned.

Blood of Our Fathers
Not long after Deathwing attacked Stormwind, the Twilight's Hammer cult tried to assassinate both King Varian and his son, Prince Anduin, on the day of Remembrance Day, at the Stormwind City Cemetery which they were lured to by Archbishop Benedictus under the pretense of family bonding, while Benedictus tried to sway the masses to the Twilight hammer's cause. Later, much to everyone's surprise, Varian arrived at the Remembrance Day Ceremony. Limping onto a stage erected for the holiday, disheveled and covered in blood, came King Varian and Prince Anduin, barely holding each other up in their fatigue. As the realization of their dire state spread, a concerned murmur arose, but Varian raised his hand in a gesture of reassurance, and the crowd grew silent. It suddenly dawned on Varian that he had never found time to prepare his Remembrance Day speech. The king paused for just a moment, trying to smile through the pain, and then realized with utmost clarity that he now knew exactly what to say. He tells the people of Stormwind that though he has his faults, as their king, he has and always will have their best interests in mind. Even after Deathwing's attack, Stormwind will always remain vigilant and stand defiantly against their enemies. They will always rebuild from tragedy and continue to learn from adversity. Stormwind will continue to grow from every direction, forging a brighter future. Each day they are alive is a great day, for each generation finds its own way to become the greatest generation that has ever lived and become the heroes of tomorrow. Varian states that though in the past they relied on strength and steel to forge their destiny, it is not the only way. In order to restore the world, a time will come when leaders need to be healers instead of warriors, those who mend instead of those who break. Only then can they truly cure their deep ills and achieve a lasting peace. Varian watched with pride as his words stirred the hearts of his people. The populace cheered for King Varian and this new direction for Stormwind.

Tides of War
When Theramore fell, black flags were raised at Stormwind's buildings in honor of those who died there. Later on, mass construction of Alliance ships took place in Stormwind Harbor for the upcoming global Alliance-Horde war.

Mists of Pandaria
As the Alliance achieved a critical victory against the Horde, thwarting the plans of Garrosh to unleash the horrible powers of the Divine Bell, the repairs of the damage caused by Deathwing neared completion. The front gate towers have been reconstructed, and the statue of Danath Trollbane is back in place and mended to pristine condition. Stormwind now appears more beautiful than ever. However, the area where the Park stood still appears black and charred, and the surrounding walls and buildings are still in ruins, reminding everyone of the horrors of Deathwing's power. It seems unlikely that the destroyed district will ever fully recover, due to the fact that large chunks of land mass are missing.

Warlords of Draenor
The Kirin Tor have built a camp on a plateau behind the city walls, overlooking Mage Quarter, called the Overlook. A portal is situated there, which is a gateway between the camp and the Everbloom outpost. After losing control of the situation there, the portal allowed Gorgrond overgrowth to leak through it, while the Primals led by Yalnu invaded the city.

The Dragonmaw clan led by Warlord Zaela took control of the Upper Blackrock Spire and prepared to launch a doomsday weapon targeted at Stormwind, but they were stopped by the adventurers of the Alliance and Horde.

Legion
The hard-working citizens of Stormwind worked hard to rebuild Stormwind Park into the majestic Lion's Rest. Following the death of King Varian Wrynn at the Broken Shore, King Wrynn's tomb was displayed in a portion of the new park as well as a memorial listing the names of fallen Alliance soldiers.

With the Burning Legion launching their third invasion of Azeroth, Prince Anduin Wrynn is officially crowned the new king of Stormwind. At the end of the invasion, a new embassy opened in the city outskirts. Sometime after the end of the Argus Campaign, Anduin Wrynn had a speech for Alliance citizens at Lion's Rest.

Battle for Azeroth




Following the War of the Thorns, many night elven and Gilnean refugees arrived at Stormwind City. Tyrande Whisperwind also took the wounded Malfurion Stormrage here to recuperate from his injuries.

Princess Talanji and Prophet Zul of the Zandalari Empire were captured and imprisoned to the Stormwind Stockades. Varok Saurfang was also imprisoned there after being captured during the Siege of Lordaeron. The Horde learned about the Zandalari trolls and Warchief Sylvanas sent a small force to rescue them in order to gain new allies. The Horde was successful, but their presence was revealed to the Stormwind soldiers and soon they were discovered by Genn Greymane and Jaina Proudmoore who tried to corner the infiltrators. As the agents were trying to escape their pursuers, Zul set the city ablaze by using a torch. Fighting through the soldiers that just came from Lordaeron in Stormwind Harbor, Jaina confronted the Horde group once more but was forced to abandon them as she saw the city burning.

A War Council was later held inside Stormwind Keep.

Anduin Wrynn later let Varok Saurfang out of prison. Horde spies stationed in Stormwind learned about Varok's escape and informed Sylvanas.

Portal Keeper Romiir stationed in Zuldazar during Faction Assaults maintained a portal to Stormwind. Similarly, several Purified soldiers were portaled from Stormwind to Drustvar as well.

Notable characters
With the fall of King Varian Wrynn at the Battle for Broken Shore, Anduin Wrynn now rules as king from his throne in Stormwind Keep. After the conclusion of the Battle for Lordaeron, the Gilnean King Genn Greymane departed Stormwind for Kul Tiras, to assist Alliance champions in bringing Kul Tiras back into the Alliance. Shortly before the time of Varian's return, Lady Prestor's true identity has been fully uncovered and brave adventurers have already dispatched her. Highlord Bolvar Fordragon, the former regent of Stormwind, was sent off to Northrend to command the main Alliance forces stationed there, Where his destiny would lead him into becoming the new Lich King. Grand Admiral Jes-Tereth is the officer in charge of the kingdom's fleet. In the Cathedral of Light, Archbishop Benedictus used to preside over the Clergy of Light but with the revelation of his betrayal and identity as the Twilight Father that position has currently become vacant. In the Valley of Heroes General Hammond Clay stands sentinel on his horse, flanked by his topmost commanding officers, Major Mattingly and Field Marshal Afrasiabi. Other guild masters include High Sorcerer Andromath and Master Mathias Shaw, in charge of Stormwind wizards and thieves guilds, respectively.

Districts
The city is made up of roughly rectangular districts separated by canals.

Valley of Heroes
Stormwind is the largest of the surviving human kingdoms remaining on Azeroth. Connected through both sea access and the newly-built underground railroad, Stormwind proudly swings its doors wide open for adventurers of the entire Alliance. Humans, dwarves, gnomes, high elves, and night elves all have their own little niche in the capital city, making Stormwind a true melting pot of cultures.
 * The Valley of Heroes (area beyond and including the city gate)

Stormwind City's great gates tower over the treetops of Elwynn Forest. Beyond them lies The Valley of Heroes, a beautiful natural basin spanned by a majestic bridge leading to the city's trade district. The bridge is lined with enormous statues depicting some of the greatest heroes of the Second War — the brave men, high elves, and dwarves who stepped into the Dark Portal to bring an end to the war in the scarred land of Draenor itself. Though the fate of these brave fighters was inconclusive in the past, the reopening of the Dark Portal lead to the discovery that three of the five heroes depicted remain alive; Khadgar once studied under the Naaru of Shattrath City, and later became one of the key members of an expedition to counter the Iron Horde in alternate universe's Draenor. Danath Trollbane leads the forces of Honor Hold in Hellfire Peninsula, and Kurdran Wildhammer has since returned to lead his Wildhammer brethren in the Twilight Highlands. However, the fates of Turalyon and Alleria Windrunner remain shrouded in mystery, and many who see the monuments lament the loss of these great heroes and wonder if Azeroth will ever be graced by bravery as steadfast as theirs.

As Deathwing swept over the city during the Cataclysm, he caused great damage to the Valley of Heroes, leaving massive, scorching clawmarks on the nearby towers and toppling the statue of Danath Trollbane into the water below the bridge. One can currently observe several crews of dwarven and human workers busy repairing the damage.

Trade District
"It bustles with trade from across the continent and beyond."
 * The Trade District (central district)
 * The Gilded Rose (Stormwind City's inn)

The Trade District lies in the center of Stormwind City and is always bustling with activity. Half of the city's banks, auction houses, and inns, as well as the local gryphon master, are all located within. In addition, consumers find plenty of outlets for their coin in the various equipment shops nearby. For those with a taste for the delectable, the Trias and Gallina families run cheese and wine shops out of the Trade District as well.

Old Town

 * Old Town (eastern district) "Adventurers of every sort can be found wandering the streets of Old Town."
 * Champions' Hall (Alliance PvP barracks)
 * Command Center (Warrior and Hunter guilds)
 * 7 (Rogue guild)

To the east of the Trade District is Old Town, the resurrected remains of the small village that was once clustered around the base of Stormwind Keep back in the days before the First War. Though quaint, this district is a bit more rough around the edges. Pickpockets, beggars, and the impoverished try to make a living in its alleys. Though all businesses are honest, their inventories can be a bit exotic - poisons, venoms, assassin's daggers, and potent alcohol are all on the menu in Old Town. Fortunately, the Stormwind Command Center is located along the edges of Old Town, so those traveling through have little reason to worry. Near the Command Center is the headquarters of 7, the Kingdom of Stormwind's intelligence agency.



Mage Quarter

 * Mage Quarter (western district)
 * The Slaughtered Lamb (Warlock Guild)
 * Wizard's Sanctum (Mage guild)
 * Academy of Arcane Arts and Sciences (Mage guild)

To the west of the Trade District is the Mage Quarter. Though Stormwind had a handful of able mages among its ranks during the Second War, the arrival of the dispossessed wizards of Dalaran signaled Stormwind's importance as the world's new center of magical study. The Wizard's Sanctum stands proudly in the center of the district, and the tower is so packed with students that it is often on fire, encased in ice, or half-hidden behind a curtain of sparkling arcane energy. The rest of the district is filled with tailoring shops, warehouses storing magical artifacts and reagents, and bustling coffeehouses and bars filled to the brim with mages and warlocks. During the First War, Stormwind utilized the services of the mysterious conjurers, but they no longer have any presence in the city.

Cathedral Square

 * Cathedral Square (northern district)
 * Cathedral of Light (Paladin/Priest guild)
 * '''Orphanage

To the north of the Trade District is Cathedral Square, the religious center for all followers of the Holy Light. Though Stormwind Keep is the biggest structure in Stormwind City, many believe the most awe-inspiring is the Cathedral of Light. Even the druidic night elves are filled with wonder when they look upon its tall white towers and imposing architecture. Within the cathedral are the most faithful and true paladins and priests of the human race. The bishops and paladins at the cathedral are on a lifelong quest to bring the light to the darkest places on Azeroth, and all are welcome within the cathedral's walls as long as their journey is one of good and not evil. Other notable locations in the square include the city's orphanage (inhabited by many sons and daughters of families who lost their lives from the many conflicts that have raged through the years.) and the city hall, where Stormwind's architects and researchers keep a census on the citizens of the kingdom, as well as finding ways to improve the quality of life for those within the city.

Dwarven District

 * Dwarven District (north-eastern district)
 * Deeprun Tram (accessible from the Dwarven District)

To the east of Cathedral Square is the Dwarven District, where the dwarves and gnomes of Ironforge carve a slice of Stormwind life out for themselves. The air is thick with smoke and sparks, and the ground trembles with the pounding of anvils, but to many it feels just like a home should; the local tavern, The Golden Keg, is certainly homely and serves as a home away from home for many weary adventurers. A trove of weapon and armor shops line the streets, and blacksmiths create masterpieces out of common metals in the many open-air plazas. Thus trade and commerce is not exactly scarce, and the district's auction house and bank are busy most hours of the day. Many adventurers pass through the Dwarven District on their way to the Deeprun Tram, a marvel of gnomish engineering and fast transport to the city of Ironforge. The massive spinning cog that frames the entrance to the tram tunnel cannot be missed. An opening by the northern end leads to the areas surrounding Olivia's Pond, providing solace for those in need of some peace and fresh air.

Canals and the prisons

 * The Canals (separating all districts)
 * Cut-Throat Alley (accessible from The Canals; empty)
 * Stormwind Stockade (instance accessible from the Canals, north-east of the Mage Quarter)
 * The Vault

Each district is bordered by shimmering blue canals and linked by bridges spanning over them. Anglers fish from the many docks in the city, the freshwater fish within perfect quarry for the beginning fisherman. There are two fortifications that rise from the waters in Stormwind - both are prisons for the lawless and evil. The Stockade is accessible from the Mage Quarter and holds murderers, gnolls, thieves, and other enemies of the Kingdom. Recently, the quakes of the Cataclysm angered the elementals in the ground below the prison, and they slaughtered half of the inmates as they subsequently erupted into the halls of the Stockades. The resulting chaos sparked a series of riots among the prisoners, and the guards currently hold only the area by the entrance, where Stormwind officials under Warden Thelwater seek adventurers to aid them in quelling the gnoll, criminal and elemental uprisings within. A similar prison, the Vault, is surrounded by water on all sides and seems to be holding out fine - for now. It is unknown if the demons, mages, and undead within will one day rise up as well.

Stormwind Keep

 * Stormwind Keep (between Old Town and the Dwarven District)
 * Petitioner's Chamber
 * Garden
 * Royal Library (library)
 * War Room (Alliance PvP battlemasters)

Finally, the crown of Stormwind City remains Stormwind Keep. Rising high between the Dwarven District and Old Town, the keep is an architectural triumph for the ages. Surrounded by a deep moat, an impressive statue of Stormwind's King, Varian Wrynn, greets adventurers as they make their way into the large courtyard, a testament to his triumphant return to the city after having been kidnapped by the Defias while on a diplomatic mission to Kalimdor. Within the keep itself are many librarians, nobles, and representatives of the human peoples as well as the Battlemasters who organize adventurers of the Alliance into armies ready to march on the many battlefields across Azeroth and beyond.

Anduin sits alone by the throne since the death of his father, who perished at the Battle for Broken Shore. Previously he was the young prince who watched over the city in his father's absence with the aid of Lady Katrana Prestor - who turned out to be none other than the black dragon, Onyxia, in a cunning and manipulative guise - and Highlord Bolvar Fordragon, who perished in the Alliance's campaign against the Lich King in Icecrown and later stood by his father's side until the events in Pandaria. During this time Varian was also advised by Genn Greymane, leader of the human-turned-worgen nation of Gilneas whose exiles were recently driven back into the fold of the Alliance due to the tragic events that befell their homeland.

Stormwind Harbor


The harbor is located in the most northern area bordering the Great Sea, with the access point set between the Park and Cathedral Square. Stormwind City towers over the harbor, with cannons stationed all along the walls. A major transportation hub, the docks are teeming with all sorts of activity. Both of the outermost docks are currently in use, connecting to Valiance Keep in the Borean Tundra and replacing the Menethil Harbor ↔ Auberdine line connecting the Eastern Kingdoms to Northern Kalimdor. Siege engines are also dotted throughout the area, and at the northern tip one can find a large shipyard. If you are friendly enough, Thargold Ironwing will grant you a free aerial tour through the entire region.
 * Stormwind Harbor (between the Park and Cathedral Square)

City Outskirts


This area has been built as a replacement for the Park district, swallowed by the Cataclysm and Deathwing's assault on the city. It houses a large lake with several farmhouses, as well as an Earthen Ring's earthshrine that serves as a connection with the regions that are the main focus in the war against the Death Aspect. The Tushui Pandaren have set up a pavilion near the earthshrine, where Alliance adventurers can travel to Pandaria, purchase dragon turtle mounts and contains the city's monk class trainer. It shares the same beauty as the rest of Elwynn Forest. Following the third invasion of the Burning Legion, a new embassy for the new allies was built in the outskirts. After the Burning of Teldrassil, the displaced night elves and humans of Gilneas largely take refuge in this area, with their racial vendors being located here.
 * Stormwind City Outskirts and Stormwind Lake (between the Dwarven District and the Stormwind Keep)

The Overlook
This area has been claimed by the Kirin Tor as a rear base for an expedition that was sent through a portal that leads to Everbloom in Gorgrond. Some of the plantlife from Gorgrond has seeped through and started to grow around the portal. The area currently serves no purpose in the uninstanced version of Stormwind, but the fight against a genesaur named Yalnu takes place there in the Everbloom instance.
 * Kirin Tor encampment situated on a plateau overlooking Mage Quarter

Lion's Rest
The hard-working citizens of Stormwind have been hard at work rebuilding Stormwind Park where they managed to rebuild a large mass of earth that was ripped out of the land from Deathwing's attack to rebuild the park upon. Following the death of King Varian Wrynn at the Broken Shore, King Wrynn's tomb is displayed in a portion of the new park as well as a memorial listing the names of fallen Alliance soldiers.
 * Lion's Rest (Southwest from Cathedral Square or northwest from the Mage Quarter.)

Other locations

 * Eastern Wall
 * Goldsmith's street
 * King's Privy Quarters
 * Lower city
 * Stormwind University

Points of interest

 * The are two Banks in Stormwind. One in the Trade District and the other in the Dwarven District.
 * The Gryphon master on the walls of the city, from the southeastern part of the Trade District, as is the flying trainer Bralla Cloudwing and the flying mount vendor Tannec Stonebeak.
 * The City Hall in the northeastern edge of Cathedral Square, but currently serves no function.
 * The Royal Library is in Stormwind Keep, down the first left hall and to the right of the atrium park. It houses Harrison Jones, who spends his time lecturing young students on the merits of archaeology.
 * The Wizard's Sanctum in the Mage Quarter has a magical Dimensional Gateway. Also known as the Academy of Arcane Arts and Sciences, it is one of the world's centers of arcane studies and is where players arrive when utilizing a mage portal for travel.
 * The first Auction House is located in the center of the Trade District. The second is in the Dwarven District.

Travel connections
🇨🇴

From the Mage Tower

 * Stair of Destiny, Hellfire Peninsula, Outland (level 58+)
 * Shattered Beachhead, Blasted Lands (level 90+)

From the Eastern Earthshrine

 * Nordrassil, Mount Hyjal, Kalimdor
 * The Briny Cutter or Silver Tide Hollow, Vashj'ir
 * Temple of Earth, Deepholm
 * Ramkahen, Uldum, Kalimdor
 * Highbank, Twilight Highlands
 * Baradin Base Camp, Tol Barad Peninsula
 * Paw'don Village, Jade Forest, Pandaria

From Stormwind Keep

 * Stormshield, Ashran, Draenor
 * Dalaran, Broken Isles

From the Stormwind Embassy

 * Telogrus Rift (Void elves only)

From Stormwind Harbor

 * Rut'theran Village, Teldrassil, Kalimdor (level 1-109)
 * Lor'danel, Darkshore, Kalimdor (level 110+)

By boat

 * Valiance Keep, Borean Tundra, Northrend (The Kraken)
 * Boralus, Tiragarde Sound, Kul Tiras (The Relentless)

From the Stormwind Embassy

 * Vindicaar (Lightforged Draenei only)

🇨🇴

Flight

 * Goldshire, Elwynn Forest (0:32)
 * Furlbrow's Pumpkin Farm, Westfall (0:50)
 * Sentinel Hill, Westfall (1:13)
 * Rebel Camp, Northern Stranglethorn (1:32)
 * Lakeshire, Redridge Mountains (1:53)
 * Darkshire, Duskwood (1:56)
 * Morgan's Vigil, Burning Steppes (2:10)
 * Thorium Point, Searing Gorge (2:17)
 * Nethergarde Keep, Blasted Lands (2:56)
 * Booty Bay, Cape of Stranglethorn (3:18)
 * Ironforge, Dun Morogh (3:35)

Tram

 * Ironforge, Dun Morogh

Phased areas
During the Battle for Broken Shore, the Harbor and then the Keep is phased.

From the quest The Old Barracks (quest), the Old Barracks part of the city will become phased to have level 84 Cultists and in place of wandering Stormwind Guards, and critters.

From the quest Cataclysm in the Catacombs, the Cathedral of Light is phased, with Warped and Babbling Cultists and the target of the quest, The Black Bishop, in place of the many NPCs and trainers.

Name
The city is named for the occasional sudden squalls created by a ley line pattern in the mountains around the city.

Stormwind region
Stormwind is the name of a region (land or area. ) It is a small, coastal zone west of the Burning Steppes, south of Dun Morogh and northwest of Elwynn Forest, on the western coast of the Eastern Kingdoms. This region is the location of Stormwind City, as established in Lands of Conflict and Warcraft The Roleplaying Game, and includes an area north of the city. Today, with the collapse of Lordaeron and Stromgarde, Stormwind is the brightest bastion of humanity on Azeroth.

The mountains around the glorious Stormwind Keep have an impressive ley line pattern that is responsible for the occasional sudden squalls that give Stormwind City its name. Wild beasts including harpies and dire wolves inhabit this area.

The Stormwind region itself does not go much beyond the boundaries of Stormwind City; it begins at the Valley of Heroes and extends into the mountains to the north. The city stands firm on Azeroth's northwest coast and is the capital of both the Stormwind region and kingdom, and contain one of the few remaining great human cities. Primarily a human settlement, a fair number of high elves, Ironforge dwarves, and even a few night elves and gnomes dwell here as well.

A reasonably large shipyard lies on the northwestern part of the city and provides the Alliance with naval craft. The lush valley of heroes lies south of the city and all visitors must pass through it, as it is the only entrance to Stormwind on foot. With all the rebuilding efforts in the past thirty years, the city has several notable structures. These include: the Academy of Arcane Sciences, Cathedral of Light, Pig and Whistle, the Stockade and the Vault, and Stormwind Keep. The mighty walls surrounding Stormwind are somewhat invulnerable to small scale attacks. Crossbowmen can be stationed upon the ramparts, heavy ballistae keep watch for enemy artillery, and of course, waves of guards are willing to sacrifice their lives to defend the city.

A grand city with new construction that still gives a nod to human and dwarven architecture of old, one can move about Stormwind on foot, rent one of many mounts or even have a small boat take them through the several canals that bisect the city. The mountains north hold some nastier sorts of beasts that will sometimes venture south to see what they can pick from the road. The passage is no stranger to harpy attacks, and even dire wolves are spotted north of the city. The locals assume the creatures have escaped from the Blackrock orcs in the Burning Steppes.

People and culture


Stormwind is the jewel of the Alliance in Azeroth. The oldest and grandest human city, it has weathered three wars, ransacking by the orcs, and invasions by the Alliance to take it back. Although mostly a human city, Stormwind does house dwarves, high elves, night elves, and other Alliance races. It opens its gates to all Alliance members to participate in trade within the city limits. Most of the city's coffers are filled with the taxes taken from merchants in the busy market. Every night at sunset the Cathedral of Light rings a solitary bell whose sweet pitch reaches the entire city. This is for the night elves, who are unaccustomed to living within cities. A day of mourning is set aside for the high elves, remembering Dalaran's destruction. The ale pours free for every dwarf in the city during the holy birthday of Anvil Stormglaive. It also holds celebrations for the Third War veterans, to honor the citizens of all Alliance races who fought in the war.

Stormwind's climate is warm, the skies clear, and the seasons generally temperate. Thus, clothes in the city are composed of light fabric for the most part. Color choices usually are bold: whites, reds, blues, oranges, and yellows. Although one might assume the climate would call for as little clothing as possible, the inhabitants of Stormwind prefer light fabric, but lots of it. Humans usually wear long-sleeved tunics, billowy trousers, leather boots, and sometimes even ridiculously large, floppy hats for excessively sunny days.

The high elves generally copy the humans' fashions here, though there are some high elves who prefer to set themselves apart. Although Stormwind is well-defended, the city guard usually wears only light armor to handle the occasional thief or bandit. The paladins will don their full plate during ceremonies and when they ride out of the city on business defending Elwynn Forest or the surrounding areas, but around the city they wear nothing more than the breastplate that identifies them as paladins. A third force in the city is dedicated to maintaining the peace. In addition, a guild of assassins works behind the scenes with the blessings of the king and the Stormwind ruling council. When solving an "inconvenient" problem would go against the tenets of the Holy Light, the Stormwind Assassins are called. They deal with matters quickly and efficiently, and few questions are asked.



The city's nobility strives for power while manipulating others and shrouding their sins in secrecy. A few exceptional nobles, however, do try to tend to the city the best they can. The priests, meanwhile, uphold the tenets of the Holy Light, although some have become more political than religious. The guard is generally uncorrupted and has a close relationship to the carefree citizens of Stormwind.

Opposition to the Horde, Scourge, Burning Legion, and Shadow are near requirements to live in the city. Anyone who speaks out in support of these groups, or even suggests it, is likely to be hanged or driven out, for these beliefs are enforced like law by the will of the common man.

Most citizens of the city are practitioners of the Holy Light, and nearly all at least respect it. The religion is tied closely to the government, for the church has enough political influence to directly impact the actions the King decides to take.

Those criminals who survive arrest and trial reside in one of the city's two prisons. Common criminals from pickpockets to murderers stay in the Stockade. More dangerous types — demons, rogue mages, and the like — are left to rot in the Vault, which is surrounded on all sides by water.

Notes on Stormwind region

 * In the map of Warcraft: Orcs & Humans this region is represented by Stormwind Keep, some mountains and an unmarked forest.
 * In two official sided map released by BradyGames, it's shown that the northern part of the region is a mountainous region.
 * The part of this region that doesn't include Stormwind City was inaccessible in World of Warcraft before patch 4.0.3a, in which it was finally removed and replaced with water.
 * North of this area, on the other side of Coldridge in Dun Morogh, is a long valley that continues northward behind the mountain entrance of Gnomeregan. Under normal circumstances it, too, is inaccessible.
 * In World of Warcraft the coastline belongs to Westfall - actually, Westfall waters continue even to southern Dun Morogh - however, the coastline belongs to Stormwind according to World of Warcraft: The Roleplaying Game. It is possible that it's just a gameplay limitation.

Notes and trivia

 * A sewer in the city leads to Mirror Lake.
 * The artillery shells used by the Storm's Fury gunship were manufactured by "Stormwind Royal Industries".
 * The Four Dons used to sing in the city.
 * Stormwind City is the only Alliance capital that has an instance within the city borders. This is convenient for repairing and selling afterwards.
 * Stormwind City contains the Officer barracks for the Alliance, and thus access to all the special PvP gear.
 * Stormwind City is the only Alliance city with all class trainers present (including druid and shaman).
 * Stormwind City's role as a hangout for high-level players has fluctuated over the years. Since patch 1.10, it has risen in popularity compared to Ironforge (though this may vary by server). Stormwind City is now only two boat rides (or a tram ride) away from every other Alliance city as well as Northrend, making it extremely attractive to adventurers of all races. It became even more suited in Cataclysm which removed the city portals in Dalaran (and Shattrath) while adding the Eastern Earthshrine to Stormwind City. The removal of the city portals reduced especially Dalaran's popularity as a hangout spot (Shattrath lost its popularity in WOTLK when it was "replaced" by Dalaran) which made other cities closer to the new areas more attractive. The Eastern Earthshrine serves exactly this purpose, which has made Stormwind City the most popular city for level 80-85 Alliance players. Orgrimmar has undergone the same process for Horde players.
 * From Patch 3.0.8 to Patch 4.0.3, night elves and draenei could only ride through Stormwind City's Stormwind Counting House bank door on mechanostriders; all other Alliance mounts made these two races too high to fit. When it was remodeled with the addition of the Dwarven District's Royal Bank of Stormwind in Patch 4.0.3a, the height of the doorway was increased.
 * Look into List of Stormwind NPCs for a list of quest givers in the area.
 * The cathedral's bell rings to mark the hours, and in times of danger to alert the citizens.
 * In some districts, the School Mistress Miss Danna can be met with a group of school children during their tour, showing the presence of a children's school in the city.
 * There was once an endless supply of Ice Cold Milk scattered around Stormwind City in barrels, which was useful if you were a low-level mana user and wanted to save gold.
 * Stormwind City used to be a big target for Horde players to kite the end-game boss Lord Kazzak and then set him loose within the city. Kazzak has since been moved to Hellfire Peninsula.
 * Stormwind City is arguably the largest city in the game after the addition of Stormwind Harbor and the Outskirts. It is only rivaled by Silvermoon City and Shattrath City.
 * Stormwind City had the largest area out of Kalimdor dedicated and inhabited by night elves, before the Park was destroyed.
 * 7 have "friends" in nearly every quarter of Stormwind City, selling goods, listening to strangers chat, and keeping an eye out on their behalf.
 * The gnome warlock Niby the Almighty was previously planning to unleash a demon upon Stormwind City as punishment for exiling him. Although he managed to summon the Black Chicken of Death it seems he gave up his plans and later moved to Icecrown Citadel where he now sells Tier 10 armor for warlocks.
 * Doctor Weavil refers to Stormwind City as the "capital of cheese", likely because of the shop Trias Cheese.
 * Stormwind is, alongside Dalaran, the only two capital cities in which a rare mob may spawn; in the case of Stormwind, the Sewer Beast crocolisk.
 * According to Robby Flay, apple trees can be found in every district of Stormwind City.
 * Fishing is a favored sport in Stormwind City. The canals and lakes of Stormwind City house a variety of seafood. Fishermen fish Gigantic Catfish and Canal Crabs in the Canals. Olivia's Pond is stocked with Crystal Bass every year and Stormwindians have recently been trapping Rock Lobsters below the docks of Stormwind Harbor. The most prized and challenging fish is the Hardened Walleye, found in Stormwind Lake.
 * Stormwind City is a Rare Location card in the World of Warcraft: Trading Card Game's Drums of War set.
 * One of the classic game boards in Hearthstone is themed around Stormwind City.
 * When developing Stormwind during the creation of classic World of Warcraft, the designers didn't know what gameplay purpose the in-game cities would serve, only that the game would have large capital cities (though no one seemed to know exactly how big the cities needed to be). At the time, the developers thought that all quest givers would be located in the cities, though they later realized that this didn't make any sense from a design standpoint. Johnathan Staats recalls that Stormwind was "especially painful" to design due to its confusing layout and the fact that the minimap functionality didn't exist for the majority of WoW's development, meaning that many who entered Stormwind would get lost and be unable to find the city gates. He cites the specific example of not being able to tell that one was in the Trade District until one saw the gates leading out of the city.
 * Staats also recalls that Stormwind may have originally had nine districts, two of which were fused into a single area.
 * Originally, the city was planned to feature gondolas that would serve as a quick way to travel from one district to another, hence the existence of the Canals and the fact that players can get in and out of the Canal waters. Staats admits that, in hindsight, this was a terrible idea.
 * The unused instance portal between the Old Town and the Trade District removed in Cataclysm was originally meant to lead to the player housing area.