Description

Ravenloft is a Domain of Dread centred upon the land of Barovia, a bleak and isolated valley surrounded by impassable mountains and enveloped by supernatural mists. It is ruled by Strahd von Zarovich, a vampire lord whose curse defines the nature of the domain.
Ravenloft is one of the most well-known and stable domains within the Domains of Dread, often considered the archetypal expression of gothic horror within the demiplane.

Geography

Regional Overview

Ravenloft consists primarily of a single valley enclosed by the Balinok Mountains, with all routes beyond blocked by the Mists.
The land is characterised by:

• Dense forests
• Cold, overcast weather
• Limited arable land
• Constant atmospheric oppression

Notable Regions

Barovia

A decaying village near the eastern gates of the domain, marked by despair and stagnation.

Vallaki

A fortified town attempting to impose order and forced optimism through strict governance.

Krezk

An isolated settlement reliant on self-sufficiency and seclusion.

Castle Ravenloft

The seat of Strahd’s power, overlooking the valley from a sheer cliff. It dominates both the physical and psychological landscape.

Political Structure

Absolute Rule

Ravenloft is ruled entirely by Strahd von Zarovich:

• No formal government exists beyond his authority
• Local leaders (burgomasters) govern settlements at his discretion
• All power ultimately derives from Castle Ravenloft

Local Governance

• Each settlement maintains a burgomaster
• Authority is limited and subject to Strahd’s will
• Law enforcement is inconsistent and often ineffective

Culture

Social Conditions

Life in Ravenloft is defined by:

• Fear of the unknown and the supernatural
• Resignation to suffering
• Isolation from the outside world

Belief Systems

• Worship of the Morninglord persists in diminished form
• Reverence for Mother Night exists in rural traditions
• Religious practices are often tied to protection from darkness

Daily Life

• Agriculture is limited and unreliable
• Trade is minimal and localised
• Travel between settlements is dangerous

History

Mortal Origins

Strahd von Zarovich was once a mortal warlord who conquered the valley of Barovia and established his rule.

The Curse

Through dark pacts and personal betrayal:

• Strahd became a vampire
• The land was drawn into the Domains of Dread
• Ravenloft became both his kingdom and his prison

Cycles of Repetition

The domain is defined by recurring patterns:

• Strahd’s pursuit of lost love
• The arrival of outsiders drawn into the Mists
• Repeated failure and tragedy

Economy

Resources

• Subsistence farming
• Limited livestock
• Small-scale craftsmanship

Trade

• Minimal inter-settlement trade
• No external trade due to isolation

Inhabitants

Population

• Predominantly human
• Many are descendants of original inhabitants
• Some are drawn from other worlds

Social Structure

• Peasant majority
• Small ruling class within settlements
• No upward mobility

Threats

Strahd von Zarovich

• Omnipresent ruler
• Capable of observing and influencing events across the domain

Environmental Threats

• Dense forests
• Harsh weather
• Limited resources

Supernatural Dangers

• Undead creatures
• Predatory beasts
• The Mists themselves

Role within the Domains of Dread

Ravenloft serves as:

• One of the most stable and defined domains
• A central example of Darklord-driven reality
• A frequent point of entry for individuals drawn into the demiplane

It is often considered the core domain of the Domains of Dread due to its prominence and structure.

Hubs

Points of Interest

Groups

Quests