Sophanem and Menaphos are the twin cities that sit like a shining jewel at the bottom of the Kharidian Desert. In ancient times these were the pinnacles of human civilisation, and few could muster armies to rival the might of those that followed the desert gods. Since then, though, the cities seem to have fallen from grace, and now Sophanem is a plague-stricken city whose gates are closed to all, while Menaphos has sealed itself off from the world as if to preserve itself from the dangers outside.
Sophanem is dominated by two great pyramids, where the tombs of their ancient kings and priests are hidden from the thieving fingers of wandering adventurers. Wandering about outside these mighty edifices is a devout follower of Icthlarin, the Sphinx. She is an ancient and wise creature well-acquainted with the history of Gielinor, but only willing to speak openly with cats.
In older times Sophanem was a bustling city filled with merchants and slaves by their thousands. Since the plagues began to strike the city, it has descended to the base level of a quarantine town. The slaves stand about lazily, while their masters hide in their houses afraid of strangers who might be bringing further trouble.
The town still manages some industry, though particularly light-fingered adventurers might like to plumb the tombs of the pyramid Jalsavrah, where the Guardian Mummy has arranged for tomb robbers to earn a few trinkets.
The Great Temple in the west of the city is home to a number of priests, as well as the High Priest of Icthlarin, who is worth talking to if you are confused about the state of affairs in Sophanem.