Path of Exile 2: Uncover the Secrets of Burning Monolith

The Burning Monolith: Path of Exile 2's Endgame Challenge

The Burning Monolith, a unique map location in Path of Exile 2's Atlas of Worlds, resembles a Realmgate but presents a significantly more challenging experience. Accessing it requires three Crisis Fragments, each obtained by conquering a Citadel – exceptionally rare and difficult map nodes.

Unlocking the Arbiter of Ash

The Burning Monolith is the lair of the Arbiter of Ash, the game's most formidable pinnacle boss. Attempting to activate the Monolith's door initiates "The Pinnacle of Flame" quest, comprising three sub-quests: Ezomyte Infiltration (Iron Citadel), Faridun Foray (Copper Citadel), and Vaal Incursion (Stone Citadel). Successfully completing these Citadels yields the three essential Crisis Fragments. Combine these fragments at the Monolith's altar to unlock the Arbiter of Ash encounter. Prepare a powerful build; this boss boasts devastating attacks and immense health.

The Citadel Hunt: A Test of Patience

Three Citadels – Iron, Copper, and Stone – each guarded by a challenging boss, hold the coveted Crisis Fragments. Their rarity is the primary obstacle.

Citadels are one-time attempts. Their location on the randomly generated Atlas is unpredictable. Community strategies, while not guaranteed, suggest:

1. Directional Exploration: Choose a direction on the Atlas and systematically explore until you locate a Citadel. Unlocking Towers provides a broader map view.
2. Corruption Tracking: Focus on corrupted nodes at the Atlas's edges. Clear these nodes, unlock nearby Towers, and repeat. Combine this with directional exploration.
3. Clustered Appearance: Finding one Citadel often indicates others are nearby.

Citadel hunting is a late-game endeavor, best undertaken with a fully optimized build.

Alternative Acquisition: Trading

Crisis Fragments, the reward for Citadel conquest, can be purchased via in-game trading or currency exchange websites. However, their rarity commands a high price. Weigh the cost against the time investment of the Citadel hunt.