The enchanting world of Elden Ring, particularly in the DLC expansion Shadow of the Erdtree, is filled with hidden treasures and intricate locations that beckon explorers to uncover their secrets. One such enigmatic domain is the Ruins of Unte, nestled in the mystique of Scadu Altus. While it may the be a challenge to reach this location, the rewards for the intrepid adventurer include an opportunity to enhance your arsenal and delve deeper into the lush narrative of the game. This guide aims to illuminate the path toward these ruins, offering insights into how to access them and what riches lie within.
Chapter 1: The Path to the Ruins of Unte
To embark on your journey towards the Ruins of Unte, you must first locate a hidden coffin housed within the Shadow Keep. This location can initially elude players, but the journey becomes clearer after you defeat the formidable Golden Hippopotamus. Your starting point is the Site of Grace named 'Main Gate Plaza' within the Shadow Keep.
Navigate through the western corridors of the Shadow Keep. Keep an eye out for rows of flaming boats, which serve as a landmark to guide your way. As you make your approach, you’ll see a grand staircase leading towards the Storehouse of the Shadow Keep—but resist this temptation and continue towards the eastern edge of the area. Deal with the militiamen that lurk amongst the boats before proceeding further.
Your next goal is a corpse gripping a Silver-Pickled Fowl Foot, positioned next to a modest staircase. Descend this ladder and venture through a concealed passage behind a cascading waterfall. Further down, another ladder leads you to a small storeroom holding the painting titled 'Domain of the Dragons,' another collectible to enrich your adventure. Roll against the next illusory wall to access another hidden pathway that brings you closer to your destination.
At the conclusion of this passageway, you'll uncover a chilling stone coffin. Interact with it and prepare for a watery journey as you climb inside, leading you on a swift descent down a waterfall. Upon your emergence from the coffin, activate the nearby Site of Grace 'Castle Watering Hole'. Congratulations, you've finally arrived at the Ruins of Unte.
Chapter 2: The Challenge of Entry
Upon arriving at the Ruins of Unte, you may be misled by the apparent lack of activity at this location, primarily due to a colossal extinguished Furnace Golem obstructing the entrance. However, fear not, for there is a method to bypass this formidable barrier and explore what lies within the ruins.
To the north side of the ruins, you'll encounter a crumbled edifice. Here, you can ascend the ruins' walls and navigate the tattered rooftops draped in red fabric. This detour will reward you with valuable items: find a Lost Ashes of War and three Smithing Stone (8) scattered amongst the remains of unfortunate adventurers.
As you approach the end of this path, you will again face the towering golem. Traditional methods of entry, such as climbing or jumping, will not permit you to enter; instead, a more innovative approach is required. The key to gaining access lies in crafting a Hefty Furnace Pot. This unique item can be made by obtaining the Greater Potentate's Cookbook (2), which you can procure from the Run-Down Traveler’s Rest shack found in Gravesite Plain. Should you need a fast travel option, the Greatbridge, North Site of Grace offers convenient proximity to this location.
How to Craft the Hefty Furnace Pot
For those wishing to create a Hefty Furnace Pot, gather the following ingredients:
- Redflesh Mushrooms - easily found throughout the Shadow Realm
- 3 x Ember of Messmer, available on a corpse in a building south of the ruins
- Furnace Visages, abundant among the dismantled forms of other Furnace Golems
Chapter 3: Reviving the Golem
With your Hefty Furnace Pot in hand, the next step involves throwing it into the wide wicker head of the dormant Furnace Golem. Doing so will spark its revival. As soon as the pot collides with the golem, it springs to life, creating an opportunity for you to rush inside the ruins before it can fully react. You may prefer to escape immediately on your trusty steed, Torrent, or engage the golem in combat, depending on your playstyle.
Be forewarned, another Furnace Golem lurks in the waters south of the ruins, ready to rise and challenge any intruder. If your intention is to simplify matters, we recommend facing this second golem before reviving the first, thus circumventing a challenging two-on-one scenario.
Chapter 4: Discovering the Ruins
Once you have successfully entered the Ruins of Unte, you will be able to collect two prestigious items. Look for the Stone-Sheathed Sword located at a marked grave on the right side of the area. Additionally, make sure to locate the Incantation spell 'Giant Golden Arc' contained within a treasure chest located in the chapel.
Before making your exit, don't overlook the opportunity to secure the Revered Spirit Ash, situated behind the ruins. Access it by maneuvering through a broken wall at the back, which leads to the cliffs to the east. This addition to your inventory will serve you well in future encounters.
Chapter 5: Progressing Further
With your quest at the Ruins of Unte complete, it’s time to forge ahead. Activate the Site of Grace titled 'Recluses’ River Upstream' to place significant distance between you and any lingering threats posed by the Furnace Golems. From here, the expansive world of the Shadow of the Erdtree awaits your exploration.
Ready to take on the next challenge? Be sure to check out additional resources, such as our introductory guides to Shadow of the Erdtree, a comprehensive list of bosses, and the numerous Sites of Grace we've cataloged, which can help enhance your adventure even further.