Unveiling the Royal Families of the Valyrian Freehold Apart from the Targaryens

The Valyrian Freehold, an ancient and powerful civilization that flourished in Essos, is often synonymous with the Targaryens and their renowned dragons. However, the landscape of the Freehold was more diverse than a single royal family. This article delves into the significant noble houses that played crucial roles during the reign of the Targaryens and the dynamics of their governance.

House Velaryon: A Prominent Naval Power

House Velaryon, of Valyrian descent, was one of the earliest and most influential houses in Westeros. Known for their wealth and naval prowess, the Velaryons held a strategic position as the ruling family of the island of Driftmark. They maintained close ties with the Targaryens, who relied on their naval expertise to navigate the treacherous waters and explore the far corners of Westeros.

House Celtigar: Allegiance to House Targaryen

Another prominent house of Valyrian ancestry, House Celtigar, was marked by its unwavering loyalty to the Targaryens. The Celtries held their lands on the island of Claw Isle, an impenetrable fortress that served as a sanctuary during turbulent times. Despite their Targaryen allegiance, the family retained their unique cultural identity and continued to thrive in the Westerosi political landscape.

House Baratheon: From Foreign Origins to Great Houses

House Baratheon, an exception to the Valyrian rule, became a significant power after the Targaryen conquest of Westeros. Originally originating from the Vale, the Baratheons rose to fame under the leadership of their founder, Steffon Baratheon. They became the primary rulers of Storm's End and a Great House, aligning themselves with the Targaryens and eventually marrying into the royal family.

House Greyjoy: Rulers of the Iron Islands

House Greyjoy, the most prominent house of the Iron Islands, was a direct contrast to the Valyrians. While not of Valyrian ancestry, the Greyjoys played a significant role in the political affairs of the Valyrian Freehold and its aftermath. The Ironborn were known for their fierce independence and their interactions with the Targaryens and other noble houses. Their powerful leader, Balon Greyjoy, declared independence from the Targaryens in the Greyjoy Rebellion, though he eventually submitted to Aegon II.

House Martell: The Ruling Family of Dorne

House Martell, the ruling family of Dorne, presented a unique relationship with the Targaryens. Dorne, a culturally distinct region with its own language and customs, often resisted the Targaryen rule. The Martells were known for their complex interactions with the Targaryens, resisting their attempts to unify the Seven Kingdoms. Their resistance was partially successful, resulting in the establishment of the Vale and the independence of Dorne under the Martells.

The Absence of Royal Titles in the Valyrian Freehold

Unlike the Targaryens and the subsequent rulers of Westeros, the Valyrians did not have kings. Instead, they referred to themselves as the Freehold, emphasizing the democratic nature of their society. This absence of a royal title stemmed from the Valyrian belief in governance by elected representatives. Archons were chosen from among the lords freeholder to help lead the Freehold, but their role was limited and temporary.

Survivors of the Doom and Beyond

While the Great Conflagration, known as the Doom, decimated the Valyrian civilization, several noble families survived. Notably, House Velaryon and House Celtigar settled in Westeros alongside the Targaryens. Additionally, many other Valyrian families moved to the Free Cities, becoming part of the ruling aristocracy there. However, none of these surviving families achieved royal status in Westeros. The reason for this lies in the unique political structures of the Free Cities, which did not recognize kings and emperors. Furthermore, the Targaryens' dragons and subsequent conquest of Westeros differentiated their rule from that of other noble families.

Conclusion

The Valyrian Freehold was a vibrant and complex civilization that produced numerous noble families and houses beyond the Targaryens. Each of these dynasties played a significant role in the political landscape of Westeros and the Free Cities, forging unique relationships with the eventual rulers of the Seven Kingdoms. Understanding the dynamics between these noble families provides a deeper insight into the rich tapestry of Westerosi history.