Is there a way to break into Cidhna Mine?

To break into Cidhna Mine, you must be arrested in Markarth and ask to go to jail, as there is no other way to access the mine outside of the “No One Escapes Cidhna Mine” quest. The mine, which is run by the Silver-Blood Family and doubles as a prison, can only be entered by following the questline or by getting arrested and being sent to jail.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

1. Can you pickpocket the key or otherwise escape from Cidhna Mine? You cannot pickpocket the key or escape from Cidhna Mine, the only way to access the mine is by being arrested in Markarth and asking to go to jail.
2. How do I get the Madanach key? The Madanach key can be obtained by killing Madanach, then searching his body for a note and key, which will allow you to unlock the gate and leave the Cidhna Mine.
3. Is there a way to complete the Forsworn Conspiracy without going to jail? No, you must get arrested to continue the Forsworn Conspiracy quest, as running will result in the guards attempting to arrest you every time you enter Markarth.

The Forsworn and Madanach

4. Is Madanach good or bad? Madanach is the leader of the Forsworn, a group dedicated to conquering The Reach and freeing the native Reachmen from Nordic oppression, making him a complex character with motivations that can be seen as either good or bad.
5. Can you become friendly with the Forsworn? If you rescue Madanach, the Forsworn located at Druadach Redoubt will become friendly to you, allowing you to interact with them without hostility.
6. Should I keep Madanach alive? Keeping Madanach alive will allow you to follow him and his men to Druadach Redoubt, where you can interact with the Forsworn and potentially gain allies.

Quests and Characters

7. Who is the “N” in the Forsworn Conspiracy? The “N” in the Forsworn Conspiracy is Nepos, who is involved in the plot and can be investigated to uncover more information.
8. Can you become Thane of Markarth? Yes, you can become Thane of Markarth by helping the Jarl and completing quests for the city, which will grant you title and responsibility.
9. What happens if you resist Markarth guards? Resisting arrest will result in guards attacking you, and if you kill them, you will be wanted in Markarth and guards will attempt to arrest you on sight.

Locations and Items

10. Where does Madanach go after you free him? After being freed, Madanach will go to Druadach Redoubt, where you can find him and interact with the Forsworn.
11. What ore is in Cidhna Mine? Cidhna Mine contains silver ore, which is mined by prisoners and can be found throughout the mine.
12. Can you clean up Markarth? Yes, you can clean up Markarth by completing quests and removing the Forsworn and Silver-Blood threats, which will improve the city’s safety and stability.

Miscellaneous

13. Is Stormcloak or Imperial better? The choice between Stormcloak and Imperial depends on your character’s backstory and playstyle, as both factions have their own strengths and weaknesses.
14. Can you lose your Thane title in Skyrim? Yes, you can lose your Thane title if the Jarl position is changed during a Civil War battle, which can affect your status and responsibilities.
15. Can you get rid of the Silver-Bloods in Skyrim? Yes, you can get rid of the Silver-Bloods by killing them or persuading the Jarl to remove them from power, which will improve the city’s safety and stability.