Sigmar von Hohenheim

The hammer-wielding chieftain who forged humanity's first empire and disappeared into legend, later ascending to become its patron god.

Sigmar von Hohenheim is the legendary founder of the Empire and the most revered figure in human history within the Warhammer Fantasy setting. Before his ascension to godhood, he was a mortal chieftain who united the warring tribes of the Old World against the forces of Chaos. His life story serves as the foundational mythos for the human race's survival, blending historical fact with divine miracle.

Quick Facts

Realm: The Heavens (Aethyr); Azyr (in Age of Sigmar)

Lore & Background

The end of Sigmar's mortal life is as legendary as his birth. Rather than dying, Sigmar disappeared into the east, never to be seen again in mortal form. In later lore (the End Times), he was resurrected by the god Dazh and ascended to become a god of order, watching over humanity from the heavens. He answers prayers and guides the fate of the Empire through his priesthood and chosen champions.

Reader's Guide

Sigmar's legacy is the bedrock upon which the entire Empire of Man rests. Before him, humanity was fractured into small, squabbling tribes, easy prey for the forces of Chaos and the monstrous races of the world. Through sheer force of will and divine intervention, he united these disparate groups, establishing a centralized government and a shared religion to bind them together. His rule introduced order to chaos, both literally and figuratively.

He founded the first great cities, including Altdorf, which remains the capital of the Empire today. The Imperial Cult, dedicated to his worship, became the spiritual glue holding society together, with temples rising in every major settlement to honor his memory. Even after his ascension to godhood, Sigmar's influence never waned. He is depicted as a stern but protective father figure to humanity.

His followers believe he actively intervenes in mortal affairs, sending miracles and champions to turn the tide of battle against daemons and dark sorcery. To this day, the Hammer of Sigmar remains a symbol of hope for all those fighting against the darkness.

Did You Know?

Sigmar is one of the few mortals in history to successfully ascend to true godhood.
The Imperial Cult worshipped him as a god from shortly after his disappearance, though some early followers may have seen him as a hero.
His hammer, a weapon of immense magical power, is often depicted as being capable of striking down daemons instantly.
Sigmar's realm is in the heavens or the Aethyr, not within the Realm of Chaos; in Age of Sigmar, his realm is Azyr.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Sigmar von Hohenheim?

He is the legendary demigod and mortal founder of the Empire who later ascended to become its patron deity. His name represents humanity's primary defense against Chaos in the Old World.

What was his greatest achievement as a mortal?

Sigmar unified the warring human tribes into a single nation using a combination of military might and divine inspiration. This creation formed the basis of the Empire that stands today in the Warhammer universe.

What powers does he wield as a god?

As a member of the Pantheon, he commands divine magic and wields the legendary Hammer of Sigmar to smite his enemies. He resides in Aethel, where he guides humanity from beyond the veil of life.

How does Sigmar's mortal story conclude?

His mortal life concluded when he sacrificed himself to save his people, leading to his ascension into divinity. This event cemented his status as a saint and god within the Imperial faith.

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