Unlocking Skellige’s Secrets: A Guide to the Ancient Crypts
The question of how to access the ancient crypts in Skellige is a common one for players venturing into the rugged isles of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. These mysterious locations hold secrets, treasures, and quests that are integral to both the main narrative and side explorations. This guide will provide a clear path to entering these ancient structures, alongside answering other related questions you may have.
Gaining Access to the Main Ancient Crypt
The primary Ancient Crypt most players are seeking is not accessible immediately. You won’t stumble upon a key or a simple puzzle to unlock its doors. This specific crypt is tied to the main quest line, specifically “The Sunstone” quest. During this quest, you will explore the crypt alongside the sorceress Philippa Eilhart.
Therefore, the answer to the primary question is: you cannot access the main Ancient Crypt until you reach “The Sunstone” quest in the main storyline. The entrance is located at the Ancient Crypt signpost on Ard Skellig Island. Once the quest begins, you’ll automatically gain entry and follow the tunnel into the crypt.
Other Ancient Crypts in Skellige
While the main crypt is quest-locked, there are other ancient crypts in Skellige, specifically within the swamp cemetery. These are often part of the Armor quest, and you will need to enter at least one of them. Access to these crypts is achieved differently:
- Wayfarer’s Stones: Each crypt in the swamp cemetery is accessed via a Wayfarer’s stone. These stones are activated by using the correct sequence of Witcher Signs.
- Sign Combination: You’ll need to use Aard and Igni in the correct order on the Wayfarer’s stone to open the crypt entrance. This combination is unique to each crypt in the cemetery.
- Old Mine Crypt: One crypt is located beneath the old mine, but it also uses the Wayfarer’s stone mechanism with the Aard and Igni sign combination for entry.
Therefore, to access these secondary crypts in the swamp cemetery, you need to locate the Wayfarer’s Stones and use the Aard and Igni signs correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the Ancient Crypts in Skellige and related topics:
1. Where is the hidden place of power in Skellige?
The Place of Power north of Svorlag is hidden and becomes accessible during the “The King’s Gambit” quest if you side with Cerys. While following the path, you’ll encounter a house blocking your way. Jump on the rocks to the left of the entrance to get over it. Inside the building, is the access to the secret tunnel and the place of power.
2. How do I get into the crypt in the sewers in Vizima?
The crypt in the sewers is located in the Temple Quarter of Vizima, behind a locked gate. You obtain the key from a con artist who hangs out by the sewer entrance every morning between 06:00 and 09:00.
3. Who do you remove from the crypt during the “Ghosts of the Past” quest?
During the quest “Ghosts of the Past,” you have to decide whether to remove Margot or Louis from the crypt. Your choice affects the reward:
- Remove Margot (Take Louis’s Urn): You will be rewarded with the Vampire: Bruxa Gwent card.
- Remove Louis (Take Margot’s Urn): You will be rewarded with a sword, Forged in Fire.
4. Where is the Cyclops in Skellige?
You can find a cyclops guarding a Place of Power on the eastern coast of the main island of Skellige. The cyclops is level 30, so approach it when you are a higher level. This Cyclops will respawn whenever you meditate.
5. How do I get to Arinbjorn in Skellige?
Arinbjorn is located on Ard Skellig. You need to progress through the main quest and travel to Skellige before you can meet Nidas in this location.
6. Why does the Skellige ghost type exist (referring to the Pokemon)?
The text provided refers to Skeledirge, a Pokémon that gains its Ghost typing when the soul enters the egg-shaped fireball on its head as it evolves from Crocalor. This is not related to Witcher 3’s Skellige region, but it’s included in the text.
7. What is the significance of the Ancient Crypt in Sea of Stars?
The Ancient Crypt in Sea of Stars is a location that contains stones, monuments, and statues dedicated to the financial backers of the world. This is a reference to another game and is not related to The Witcher 3.
8. How do I get to the place of power behind Kaer Trolde?
The place of power behind Kaer Trolde is only accessible if you side with Cerys during “The King’s Gambit” quest. During this quest, you will go to the cellar with her and escape through a secret tunnel where the place of power lies.
9. How do I adjust the mirrors in The Sunstone quest?
To solve the mirror puzzle in “The Sunstone” quest, you need to:
- Turn to the left as you enter the cavern.
- Use the lever on the back of the left mirror to turn it to the right.
- Jump down in front of the left mirror and go to the middle of the cavern.
10. Can I get to Skellige without paying 1000 crowns?
No, you cannot get to Skellige without paying 1000 crowns. Due to the Skelligers’ reputation for raiding ships, captains charge a premium for passage.
11. Does it matter if you go to Skellige first?
No, it doesn’t matter. Skellige and Novigrad represent a fork in the road. You can visit either first and complete the other after.
12. When should I start Skellige quests?
You can begin the Skellige quests anytime after “Imperial Audience.” It is recommended to be at least level 17 before starting.
13. Who is the best person to rule Skellige?
Your choices during the Skellige quests influence who becomes the ruler and affects the game’s ending. Many players find Cerys to be the most effective ruler, but your decision is based on personal preferences.
14. Is Skellige supposed to be Scotland?
Skellige is inspired by the Skellig Islands in Ireland, depicting a wild and Irish-like beauty.
15. What are the rewards for killing the cyclops in Skellige?
Defeating the cyclops rewards you with an engraving that increases damage against elite and boss enemies by 25% and the Legendary Heavy Bladed Polyphemos Cyclops Bludgeon, which has the same perk as the engraving.
Final Thoughts
Unlocking the ancient crypts in Skellige is more than just about finding treasure; it’s about engaging with the rich lore and narrative of The Witcher 3. From the quest-locked main crypt to the puzzle-based entrances in the swamp cemetery, each location offers its unique challenge and reward. By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to delve into these ancient structures, discover their secrets, and continue your adventures in the world of the Witcher.