The Aetherium Forge is one of the most remarkable hidden locations introduced in Skyrim's Dawnguard expansion. Tucked deep beneath ancient Dwemer ruins, this mythic crafting station allows players to forge powerful artifacts using rare Aetherium shards. Finding this legendary site requires navigating specific questlines and tracking down key locations across Skyrim.
Locating the Ruins of Bthalft
The entrance to the secret underground forge is hidden beneath the Ruins of Bthalft, located in the southern region of The Rift. Players can reach this site by traveling south of Ivarstead or walking southwest from Riften. The surface ruins appear small and unassuming, guarded primarily by local bandits.
Upon clearing the area, players will discover a distinct Dwemer mechanism embedded in the ground. Inserting the assembled Aetherium Crest into this globe activates the entrance elevator. This mechanism lowers adventurers straight into the subterranean complex holding the ancient forge.
Prerequisites and Collecting the Aetherium Shards
Before accessing the forge, players must complete the prerequisite steps outlined in the quest Lost to the Ages. This journey begins by exploring Arkngthamz and meeting the spirit of Katria. She tasks the Dragonborn with recovering four distinct Aetherium Shards scattered across Skyrim.
These shards are located inside Arkngthamz, Deep Folk Crossing, Raldbthar, and the Dwarven Storeroom near Mzulft. After retrieving all four fragments, players combine them at a special mechanism to create the complete Aetherium Crest. Without this crest, the elevator to the forge cannot be activated.
Navigating the Aetherium Forge Chamber
Once inside the underground complex, players must navigate steam hazards, treacherous walkways, and defensive Dwemer constructs. Glowing pipes and ancient metal architecture line the descent toward the main forge hall. Preparing adequate fire resistance and healing supplies makes traversing the inner chambers much easier.
In the final chamber, players face off against waves of Dwarven automaton guards. The battle culminates in a boss fight against The Forgemaster, a giant steam-powered Centurion. Defeating this formidable guardian clears the way to use the forge safely.
Crafting Unique Aetherial Artifacts
Reaching the forge allows players to select one of three powerful relics to craft. Options include the Aetherial Crown, the Aetherial Shield, and the Aetherial Staff. Each item demands specific metal ingots along with the unique Aetherium Crest.
Because materials only allow for a single creation, players should consider their active playstyle carefully. The crown allows players to keep two Standing Stone powers active simultaneously, making it a favorite choice for many builds. After completing the item, the quest concludes, leaving players with a unique relic from a bygone era.
