Exploring the northern territory of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt brings players to Novigrad, a bustling hub filled with political intrigue, side quests, and valuable secrets. While searching for ways to upgrade Geralt's combat capabilities, tracking down ancient monoliths remains one of the most effective strategies. Unlocking these monuments provides immediate character progression advantages that enhance both magic intensity and skill point allocation.
Understanding Places of Power in the Novigrad Region
Places of Power are ancient, glowing stone shrines scattered throughout the Continent that pulse with elemental magic. Interacting with a shrine for the first time awards Geralt one free Ability Point to invest in combat, alchemy, or sign skill trees. Additionally, drawing power from these stones grants a temporary 30-minute boost to the intensity of a specific Witcher Sign.
Unlike the vast expanse of Velen or the scattered islands of Skellige, Novigrad features only two Places of Power. Because they are fewer in number, obtaining both shrines is quick, straightforward, and highly rewarding for players exploring the city. Tracking these locations down early ensures Geralt gains vital early-game stat enhancements with minimal travel time.
The Temple Isle Igni Place of Power Location
The first Place of Power in Novigrad is dedicated to the Igni Sign, which governs fire-based magical attacks. You can locate this shrine in the northern section of Temple Isle, situated near the Temple of the Eternal Fire. Head northeast from Electors' Square toward the cliffs, where you will spot the stone perched along a grassy outcrop overlooking the sea.
Activating this stone boosts your Igni intensity significantly, making Geralt's pyrotechnic attacks far more potent in battle. This enhancement proves exceptionally helpful when facing groups of guards, witch hunters, or monsters susceptible to fire damage. Players visiting the temple district during main story quests should take a brief detour to claim this accessible buff.
The Alness Hilltop Axii Place of Power Location
The second Novigrad shrine corresponds to the Axii Sign, which influences mind control and charm abilities. This Place of Power is located just southeast of the small settlement of Alness, situated on a rocky hill. Reaching the stone requires Geralt to climb the summit of the rocky outcropping overlooking the village below.
Drawing energy from the Alness stone strengthens Geralt's Axii Sign intensity for half an hour. A stronger Axii Sign allows players to stun aggressive enemies longer in active combat or manipulate dialogue options effectively. It is an easy landmark to secure while completing contract work or exploring the eastern outskirts of Novigrad.
Maximizing Character Growth and Sign Efficiency
Securing both Novigrad Places of Power offers a quick yield of two Ability Points without demanding extensive travel across hazardous monster zones. Combining these bonuses with shrines found in adjacent regions helps build a formidable Witcher character early in the campaign. Players seeking optimal builds should prioritize gathering these free skill points before taking on high-level contracts.
Remember that sign intensity buffs expire after 30 minutes, but the acquired skill points remain permanently assigned to Geralt's tree. Returning to these stones before tough boss encounters provides a temporary tactical edge in battle. Utilizing fast travel points near Temple Isle and Alness makes refreshing these magical enhancements effortless.
