The location of Katar in the Westlands
Katar is a city on the northeastern edge of Paedish Swar, the Darkwood to the east of Almoth Plain. It is claimed by by Arad Doman, although its remoteness from Bandar Eban ensures a level of autonomy and the Companion lists it as a city-state in its own right that exists outside of Domani territory.[1] It lies just west of the Mountains of Mist and northwest of Lake Somal. Some official maps show it clearly outside of Arad Doman, others as being on, or close to, the border.
It is ruled by a group of Lords and is a trading center for numerous mines and smaller settlements in the Mountains of Mist, making it quite rich. The Glossary mentions that the lords "occasionally need reminding that they are part of Arad Doman", but this conflicts with both the Companion and the color map in the books. The political status seems complicated.
History[]
Katar was built on the site of Iman, the capital of Safer. This city was destroyed during the Trolloc Wars. It is unknown when Katar arose on the same site, although if it existed during the Free Years it would have been located within the borders of Darmovan.
In 999-1000 NE, during the chaos of war and civil war between Arad Doman and Tarabon, and between both and the Seanchan and the Dragonsworn, Katar was "selling products of their mines and forges to the enemies of Arad Doman".[2] Since this could be an act as dangerous as selling weapons, or the material to make weapons, to the enemy, Rodel Ituralde was commanded to prevent them doing so. He may or not have faced the forces of Katar in battle. Although victorious, he implies that Alsalam's chaotic orders (in reality orchestrated by Graendal) undid whatever gains he made.