What was the original capital of Gondor before Minas Tirith?

Osgiliath was the original capital of Gondor before Minas Tirith became the kingdom’s capital. Founded by Isildur and Anárion after the Númenórean settlement of Gondor, Osgiliath stood on both banks of the Anduin and served as the realm’s political centre.

The city’s name means “Fortress of the Stars” in Sindarin. Its central royal tower housed the throne shared by Isildur and Anárion, as well as Gondor’s chief palantír. The city’s bridge and river position also made it a vital military and commercial crossing.

Osgiliath declined after the Kin-strife, the Great Plague, and repeated attacks from Mordor. Minas Anor, originally a fortress and later renamed Minas Tirith, gradually became more important. In 1640 of the Third Age, King Tarondor permanently moved the royal residence there, effectively making it Gondor’s capital.

A common mix-up is calling Minas Anor the original capital. It was the city that succeeded Osgiliath; Minas Tirith is its later name, meaning “Tower of Guard.”