Arda

A map of Arda.

Arda is the name of the world where Middle-earth is located.

Celebrimbor mentions Arda in his divided Ithildin poem/curse in partially explains why and how he became a wraith.

I renounce the Blessed Realm.

To redeem the Land of Shadow.

And bind the walls of Arda.

In place of the Dark Lord.

You shall have light undiminished.

All shall fear me and rejoice.

Behind the scenes

• Arda is not directly mentioned in the Lord of the Rings, other than a glossary which states 'arda' means 'region', and appears as part of words such as "Ardamin", Tar-Ardamin.
• Arda is comprised of several land masses, the main landmasses being Middle-earth and Aman, as well as oceans, seas and an atmosphere. Arda is a part of the universe created by Eru Ilúvatar. Arda, were created using the Music of the Ainur, and was created as a dwelling place for the Children of Ilúvator (Elves and Men). Upon the creation of Eä, many Ainur chose to descend upon Arda to create order and fight the Dark Lord Melkor. The most powerful of Ainur were called the Valar, the Power of the World.