The location of Hogwarts is somewhat vague, though it is known to be in the Scottish Highlands, near the all-wizard village of Hogsmeade. Hogwarts provides many learning opportunities for its students. Behind the castle lies the Black Lake, approximately a half mile in diameter.
The lake houses several other species, including Grindylows, an enormous giant squid, and a colony of mer-people. The Black Lake has commonly been given a negative reputation. This belief may stem from the fact that the Slytherin house has been tied to its depths in more than one way. Not only is the Slytherin common room located beneath the lake itself, but prevailing rumours insist that Salazar's Chamber of Secrets was also created somewhere nearby.
To the right of the main castle is a dense forest, known by students as "The Forbidden Forest". With few exceptions students are allowed to enter, although the forest offers supplies and educational tools for many classes such as Care of Magical Creatures and Herbology. The forest has not been explored thoroughly by any witch or wizard, but many creatures have been found within, from centaurs to unicorns to thestrals. A small hut lies on the outskirts of the forest that serves as either a supply building or the Gamekeeper's house, depending largely on the amount of fear each Hogwarts Gamekeeper has held for The Forbidden Forest. The current Hogwarts Gamekeeper, Rubeus Hagrid, has dedicated a large amount of time to unearthing the mysteries of The Forbidden Forest. Through his research, Hagrid has discovered many surprising facts about various Magical Beasts, including the Acromantula.
Hogwarts' Quidditch pitch lies to the left of the castle, and is very large for the time in which it was built. By today's standards, the Hogwarts pitch houses minimal seating, even though portions of it have been rebuilt numerous times. Unruly bludgers and other forms of destruction constantly require rebuilding of the outer walls and stands, but Hogwarts staff remains determined that the structure should remain the same.
The remainder of the grounds are largely empty, with the exception of the Whomping Willow. Recently grown and from unknown origins, the tree has become a sort of school symbol. While few (if any) would claim any affection for the tree, its quirkiness seamlessly adds to the many mysteries of Hogwarts.
YOU ARE READING
A History of Magic (by Bathilda Bagshot)
Historical FictionThis took me a long time to find. This version is a little different than the rest of this same book.
