The Age of Valyria is a legendary period in the history of Essos, marked by the rise and fall of the Valyrian Freehold. Around 4,700 BC, the peaceful sheep-herding folk of the Valyrian Peninsula discovered dragons lairing in the Fourteen Flames, an immense chain of volcanoes. With magic, the Valyrians tamed the dragons, gaining immense power and influence, leading to the establishment of the Valyrian Freehold. In Valyria, magic flourished, dragons soared, and smiths forged legendary Valyrian steel.
The Valyrians fought and won five wars against the Old Empire of Ghis, using their dragons to utterly destroy Old Ghis in the fifth war around 4,700 BC. Following the defeat of Ghis, the Valyrians expanded their influence over Slaver's Bay. This expansion caused the Andals to flee west to Westeros around 3,700 BC to escape potential slavery.
Around 1,436 BC, religious dissidents left Valyria to establish Lorath. Between 950 BC and 700 BC, the Valyrians engaged in the Rhoynish Wars, which ended with the Rhoynar's defeat. The Rhoynar, led by Nymeria, migrated to Dorne and unified it under House Martell.
In 314 BC, the Valyrians built Dragonstone using arcane arts. In 114 BC, the Targaryens, following a prophetic dream, migrated from Valyria to Dragonstone. The Age of Valyria came to a catastrophic end in 102 BC with the Doom of Valyria, an event marked by heavy volcanic and seismic activity. The Valyrian Peninsula was shattered, dragons were virtually wiped out, and the Freehold crumbled, leading to the emergence of the Free Cities and the cities of Slaver's Bay.
The legacy of Valyria endures long after its catastrophic fall. The surviving Targaryens later conquered Westeros with the last of the Valyrian dragons, establishing a new dynasty and continuing the legacy of Valyria in the Seven Kingdoms.
Valyrian steel remains highly prized in Westeros and beyond, a testament to the lost art of the Valyrian smiths. Blades forged from this rare metal are passed down through generations as treasured heirlooms.
The ruins of Valyria, still steeped in mystery and danger, attract scholars, adventurers, and treasure seekers. The lore and magic of Valyria continue to fascinate and inspire, despite the dangers that linger in the shattered remnants of their once-great cities.
The influence of Valyrian language and culture can be seen in various parts of the world, from the Free Cities of Essos to the noble houses of Westeros. The Targaryen claim to the Iron Throne and their association with dragons keep the memory of Valyria alive in the minds of the people.
The Age of Valyria, with its blend of magic, dragons, and unparalleled power, remains a defining chapter in the history of the known world. Its legacy continues to shape the political and cultural landscapes of both Essos and Westeros.