The Everlasting Flame: A Guide to Finding Akatosh’s Shrine Across Tamriel

Across the vast expanse of Tamriel, the faithful seek solace and blessings at the shrines dedicated to the Divines. For those devoted to Akatosh, the Dragon God of Time, finding his sacred spaces is paramount. This guide will illuminate the locations of his shrines throughout the Elder Scrolls universe, focusing on Skyrim, Oblivion, and Elder Scrolls Online (ESO).

Shrines of Akatosh Across the Games

The locations of the Shrines of Akatosh vary depending on the game you’re playing. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown:

Skyrim

In Skyrim, you won’t find a single, marked location called “Shrine of Akatosh” on your map. Instead, these shrines are smaller, often unmarked, and found throughout the world. Activating them grants you a 10% boost to Magicka regeneration for a certain duration. Here are some confirmed locations:

• North of Rorikstead: Located on a hill, specifically on the cliff overlooking the Twilight Sepulcher in Falkreath Hold.
• Northeast of Steamcrag Camp: Found on a hill in Eastmarch.
• Skyborn Altar: A notable location in The Rift, southeast of Windhelm.
• Fort Sungard: If the Legion occupies this fort in The Reach, a shrine can be found inside.
• Whiterun Hold: Some players have reported finding a shrine in this hold, but exact locations vary and may be unmarked.

Keep an eye out while exploring! These shrines are often subtly placed and can be easily missed.

Oblivion

In Oblivion, Akatosh’s presence is strongly felt at the Chapels. The most prominent is:

• Chapel of Akatosh: Situated near Kvatch’s south gate, southeast of the castle. This chapel serves as a place of worship and reflection.

Elder Scrolls Online (ESO)

ESO features Rededication Shrines, which allow players to reset their attributes, skills, and morphs. This can be done in exchange for gold. Shrines specifically dedicated to Akatosh are found at:

• Stormhaven: Wayrest Rededication Shrine
• Blackwood

Note that while these shrines are referred to as Rededication Shrines, they are, in essence, Shrines to Akatosh, as the description states that by donating you are revisiting your choices under the power of the Dragon God of Time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Akatosh and His Shrines

1. What benefit do I receive from activating a Shrine of Akatosh in Skyrim?

Activating a Shrine of Akatosh in Skyrim grants you a blessing that increases your Magicka regeneration by 10%. This effect lasts for a limited time and is particularly useful for mage characters or anyone who relies heavily on spells.

2. Where can I find the Amulet of Akatosh in Skyrim?

The Amulet of Akatosh can be found in various locations, including:

• Caves
• Forts
• Sold by your spouse (if married in-game)
• Apparel/jewelry stores
• On the bodies of slain enemies (e.g., Draugr)

3. What is the role of Akatosh in the Elder Scrolls universe?

Akatosh is the Dragon God of Time and one of the most important deities in the Elder Scrolls pantheon. He is often associated with order, law, and dragon blood. Many emperors in the history of Tamriel claim lineage through Akatosh.

4. Are there any quests directly related to Akatosh in Skyrim?

While there aren’t specific quests solely dedicated to Akatosh, his influence is felt throughout the main questline, particularly through the Dragonborn’s connection to dragons and the Dragonborn’s ability to use the Thu’um, a dragon language.

5. What is the significance of the Chapel of Akatosh in Oblivion?

The Chapel of Akatosh in Oblivion serves as a place of worship and refuge. It’s a safe haven from the dangers of the outside world and a place where characters can receive blessings and healing.

6. Can I join a cult dedicated to Akatosh?

No, there are no joinable cults dedicated to Akatosh in the Elder Scrolls games. He is primarily worshipped through established religious institutions, such as the Nine Divines.

7. How does the Khajiit religion view Akatosh?

The Khajiit version of Akatosh is known as Alkosh, the Dragon King of Cats. He is a cultural hero and a variation of the Altmeri Auri-El (another name for Akatosh).

8. What other deities are typically worshipped alongside Akatosh?

Akatosh is part of the Nine Divines, which include deities such as:

• Arkay
• Dibella
• Julianos
• Kynareth
• Mara
• Stendarr
• Talos
• Zenithar

9. What are the Rededication Shrines in ESO for?

Rededication Shrines in ESO allow players to revisit choices regarding attributes and skills. By making a donation, you can reset your attribute points, skill points, and morphs. It is referred to as a Shrine to Akatosh, as by donating you are revisiting your choices under the power of the Dragon God of Time.

10. How can I maximize the benefits of Akatosh’s blessing in Skyrim?

To maximize the benefits, activate the shrine before engaging in activities that heavily rely on Magicka, such as:

• Casting spells
• Crafting enchanted items
• Using powers that drain Magicka

11. Where can I learn more about the lore of Akatosh and the Elder Scrolls universe?

You can explore in-game books, dialogue, and official Elder Scrolls websites. Additionally, fan-made wikis and forums often compile extensive lore information. You may also find academic writings on the themes of game design, learning, and the Elder Scrolls at GamesLearningSociety.org.

12. Is the Last Dragonborn in Skyrim related to Akatosh?

The Last Dragonborn is connected to Akatosh through their dragon blood and ability to absorb dragon souls. This connection is why the Dragonborn can read Elder Scrolls with less severe consequences than ordinary individuals. Some even theorize that the Dragonborn is a direct avatar of Akatosh.

13. What is the significance of dragons calling Akatosh “Bormahu”?

Dragons refer to Akatosh as “Bormahu,” which means “Father” in their language. This signifies his role as the creator and progenitor of the dragon race.

14. How do I pray to Akatosh?

While there’s no specific “prayer” mechanic in the game, players can role-play praying to Akatosh by visiting shrines, reading religious texts, or simply contemplating his teachings. In lore, prayers often emphasize his role as the bringer of time, rebirth, and the renewer of the world.

15. Are there any artifacts associated with Akatosh?

While there aren’t specific artifacts explicitly created by Akatosh, the Amulet of Kings (a powerful artifact that played a central role in Oblivion’s main quest and links the wearer to the Dragonfires in Cyrodiil) is strongly associated with him, particularly in the lore surrounding the Dragonborn emperors of Cyrodiil.

By following this guide, you should be well-equipped to locate and benefit from the Shrines of Akatosh across Tamriel. May the Dragon God of Time guide your steps!