Isildur was 234 years old when he died.
Isildur, a pivotal figure in the history of Middle-earth, met his end at an advanced age, a testament to the long lifespans of the Númenóreans. His death occurred in the early years of the Third Age, shortly after the defeat of Sauron.
Isildur's Final Moments
Isildur's death is famously known as the Disaster of the Gladden Fields. This tragic event took place on October 5, T.A. 2, while he was journeying north after establishing his reign as High King of Arnor and Gondor. His small company was ambushed by Orcs, and despite his attempts to escape by wearing the One Ring, it betrayed him, slipping from his finger as he swam across the Anduin River. He was then shot by Orc arrows.
Key Biographical Information
To provide a clearer overview of Isildur's life and death, here's a summary of key biographical details:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Age at Death | 234 years |
| Date of Death | 5 October, T.A. 2 |
| Location of Death | Gladden Fields |
| Notable Reigns | S.A. 3320 - S.A. 3440 (joint reign of Gondor) S.A. 3441 - T.A. 2 (High King) |
Isildur's Legacy
Beyond his advanced age at death, Isildur is celebrated for several monumental achievements that shaped the Second and Third Ages of Middle-earth:
- Founding of Gondor: Alongside his brother Anárion, Isildur founded the great southern kingdom of Gondor, a bastion of Men in Middle-earth.
- Defeat of Sauron: He played a crucial role in the Last Alliance of Elves and Men. It was Isildur who famously cut the One Ring from the hand of Sauron, momentarily ending the Dark Lord's reign.
- Preservation of Ancient Artifacts: He preserved the Palantíri and the White Tree of Minas Tirith, carrying saplings from Númenor before its downfall, ensuring the continuation of important symbols and tools for his people.
His life, though ending tragically, left an indelible mark on the history of Middle-earth, with his actions having consequences that echoed for centuries.
