Gerudo Map

[Emily]

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Gerudo Province

Gerudo Province was settled by the Gerudo millennia ago, long before the Zonai founded Hyrule. The Gerudo people settled in the desert, separated from the rest of Hyrule by a large mountain range, and adapted to their environment mostly in peace. To avoid entering Gerudo Desert through the treacherous highlands, travellers must take the lone pass through the mountains. At the desert edge of the canyon is the Canyon Stable.

Because of its defensible position and the martial nature of the local culture, Gerudo Province was mostly untouched during the Calamity. A few stalkers entered the Highlands, but none survived crossing into the desert. The interior of the province remained safe enough that Kara-Kara Bazaar was able to remain open throughout the Calamity for business and trade. During the Upheaval, sandstorms and strange beasts plagued the region, only abating once the Lightning Temple was summoned. Some of these beasts can still be found beneath the ground, both in caves and the depths, but have fled the surface.

Historically, a notable aspect of the Gerudo was the ban on all male-identifying people ("voe" in the Gerudo language) from entering Gerudo Town. This was put in place after the last male Gerudo, the demon king Ganondorf, shamed the rest of the race. The practice led to much confusion and heartbreak, and was experiencing pushback even from Gerudo whose partners couldn't see their daughters. The ban was lifted after the events of the Upheaval.

Click the spoiler tag beneath the map for more information on Gerudo Town, the region's primary settlement.

Gerudo Town

The ancient fortress of the Gerudo people, Gerudo Town is built around a large oasis near the centre of the traversable desert. A wellspring causes water to flow up a stone spire in the city, which is then transported around the city via a series of artificial rooftop channels. Whatever water is unused on its path through the city drains back beneath the ground to be reincorporated into the spring for future use. Several palm trees and wildberry plants are fed by the water system and are utilised in local cuisine.

Gerudo Town was heavily damaged during the Upheaval, with most Gerudo fleeing for underground shelters during that period. After the danger passed, all races of Hyrule banded together to help the Gerudo rebuild the city. In thanks, Gerudo leader Makeela Riju lifted the ancient ban on voe from entering Gerudo Town. Now everyone can enter, though outsiders are still forbidden from residing permanently in the city.

Because of its relative safety during the events of the Calamity, Gerudo Town is one of the most populated settlements in the world, and has more amenities than most other places, especially welcome for explorers and researchers dropping in during desert expeditions. Many stalls line the main plaza of Gerudo Town, with Gerudo hawking whatever ingredients, weaponry, or food they have to passersby. Beyond that, the city also has a jewelry store called Starlight Memories, a clothing store called Fashion Passion, and a secret club requiring a password to enter. An inn and spa, the Hotel Oasis, exists for visitors' relaxation, with a bar next door.

The Gerudo leader, Riju, lives in the palace on the city's southwestern side. The palace contains a separate wellspring, and is also where the Gerudo militia trains.

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