In the vast world of Game of Thrones, the Free Cities of Essos offer a captivating glimpse into cultures beyond the Iron Throne. From the shadowy alleys of Braavos to the pleasure-soaked shores of Lys, each city boasts its own traditions, power structures, and hidden agendas. Whether you’re a curious fan or a lore enthusiast, understanding the Free Cities of Essos and their customs is essential to grasping the deeper political and cultural forces shaping the story. In this article, we’ll journey across the Narrow Sea to uncover the secrets, beliefs, and unique ways of life that make these cities unforgettable.
What Are the Free Cities of Essos?
The Free Cities of Essos are nine powerful, independent city-states located along the western coast of Essos, across the Narrow Sea from Westeros. They were originally colonies of the ancient Valyrian Freehold and became self-governing after Valyria’s fall.
Each city has its own government, customs, economy, and culture. Some are ruled by merchant councils, others by priests or wealthy elites. They’re known for trade, magic, mercenaries, and rich traditions that differ greatly from Westeros.
The nine Free Cities are: Braavos, Pentos, Lys, Myr, Tyrosh, Volantis, Norvos, Qohor, and Lorath. Together, they shape much of the political and economic activity in the world of Game of Thrones.
Why the Free Cities Matter in Game of Thrones
The Free Cities of Essos play a major role in shaping the world of Game of Thrones. Though they lie outside Westeros, their influence reaches across the Narrow Sea through trade, war, and powerful characters.
These cities are home to key institutions like the Iron Bank of Braavos and the Faceless Men, both of which impact major events in the series. Characters like Arya Stark, Varys, Daenerys Targaryen, and Jorah Mormont all spend crucial parts of their journey in the Free Cities.
Understanding the Free Cities of Essos and their customs helps explain the deeper political moves, cultural contrasts, and global power struggles in the story.
Braavos: The City of Shadows and Secrets
Braavos, the most mysterious of the Free Cities, is known as the “City of Shadows” for its hidden power and secrecy. Founded by runaway slaves from Valyria, Braavos is built on a series of islands, surrounded by thick mists and waterways.
Braavos is famous for its Iron Bank, one of the most powerful financial institutions in the world. It holds immense influence over the affairs of both Essos and Westeros. The city is also home to the Faceless Men, an ancient order of assassins who worship the Many-Faced God. Arya Stark’s journey to becoming a member of this mysterious group is one of the most captivating storylines connected to Braavos.
Culturally, Braavos values freedom and secrecy. Its citizens fiercely protect their independence, and their customs include a deep respect for the arts, especially in the House of Black and White, where the Faceless Men train.
Braavos’ influence on the broader Game of Thrones plot is undeniable, making it a key city to understand when exploring the Free Cities of Essos and their customs.
Pentos: Land of Luxury and Unstable Rule
Pentos is one of the wealthiest Free Cities, known for its luxurious lifestyle and vibrant trade. Located along the coast, it thrives on commerce, especially in silk, spices, and wine. The city’s markets are bustling, with merchants from all over Essos bringing exotic goods.
However, Pentos is also a city of unstable rule. It is governed by a group of Magisters, wealthy elites who hold most of the power. Despite their influence, they are often at odds with each other, leading to political instability.
Pentos is also significant in Game of Thrones because of its connection to the Targaryens. Daenerys and her brother Viserys sought refuge in the city, where they received support from powerful figures like Illyrio Mopatis, a key player in the rise of Daenerys.
The city’s blend of luxury and political unrest makes it an interesting backdrop in the world of Essos, shedding light on the Free Cities of Essos and their customs.
Lys: City of Pleasure
Lys is known as the “City of Pleasure,” and for good reason. Located along the coast, it is famous for its indulgent culture, luxurious lifestyle, and beautiful courtesans. The city thrives on its pleasure houses, where men and women can indulge in various forms of luxury and leisure.
Lys is also renowned for its perfumes and aphrodisiacs, which are considered the best in the known world. The city’s merchants trade these exotic goods, making Lys an important player in the economy of Essos.
Beyond its hedonistic reputation, Lys plays a subtle role in Game of Thrones due to its connection to Varys, the enigmatic master of spies. Though not much is revealed about Lys in the series, its customs and sensual lifestyle provide a stark contrast to the more austere societies in Westeros.
The culture of pleasure and luxury in Lys offers a deeper understanding of the diversity within the Free Cities of Essos and their customs, showing how each city has its unique way of life.
Myr and Tyrosh: Rivals in Commerce and Craft
Myr and Tyrosh, two of the Free Cities, are locked in a long-standing rivalry, both in trade and culture. While they share a similar location along the coast of Essos, each city has its own distinct identity.
Myr is known for its craftsmanship, especially its famous glassblowers and lenses. The city’s artisans create highly prized items, including intricate glassworks and powerful magical items. Myr’s economy is driven by these crafts, which have earned the city a reputation for fine artistry and innovation.
Tyrosh, on the other hand, is known for its vibrant culture and mercenary forces. The city is famous for its colorful clothing, especially its tradition of dying beards in bright hues. Tyrosh is also home to powerful mercenary companies that often sell their services across Essos, adding to the city’s wealth.
Despite their differences, Myr and Tyrosh have always competed for dominance in commerce and craftsmanship. Their rivalry shapes much of their politics and influences the greater region, making them key players in the Free Cities of Essos and their customs.
Volantis: Oldest and Most Valyrian of Them All
Volantis is the oldest and most Valyrian of the Free Cities, often considered the cultural heart of Essos. Founded by the survivors of the Valyrian Freehold, Volantis carries the legacy of the ancient empire in both its architecture and its people.
The city is known for its grand walls, which are among the largest in the world, and its monumental Triarchs—a ruling body that governs the city with both military and political power. Volantis has a strict class system, with a noble elite that controls most of the city’s wealth and power, while the lower classes, including slaves, fill the streets and markets.
Volantis is also a city of ancient traditions, where tiger and elephant gladiators fight in massive arenas for public entertainment. This reflects the city’s deep connection to Valyria’s militaristic culture. Additionally, Volantis plays a significant role in the Red Priesthood, with many followers of R’hllor residing here, influencing the wider religious landscape of Essos.
Volantis stands as a symbol of the ancient power of Valyria, making it an important city in the Free Cities of Essos and their customs, offering a glimpse into a time long past.
