The House of Hope stands as one of the most memorable and high-stakes dungeons in Baldur's Gate 3. Located in the fiendish realm of Avernus, this oppressive domain serves as the personal stronghold of the devil Raphael. Players who venture into this hellish territory can claim powerful magical artifacts, rescue a captive ally, and confront one of Act 3's most dangerous bosses.
Locating the Portal in the Lower City
To reach the House of Hope, players must first travel to the Devil's Fee establishment in the Lower City of Baldur's Gate. Inside, you will meet Helsik, a shopkeeper who possesses the knowledge and ritual components needed to open a portal to Avernus. By striking a deal or paying for her services, you acquire the ritual instructions along with five specific items.
Heading upstairs to the ritual circle, you must place a skull, a Coin of Mammon, a diamond, incense, and Infernal Marble in their exact designated spots. Correctly completing this ceremony opens a direct gateway into Raphael's domain. Before stepping through, ensure your party is fully rested and well-equipped, as standard long resting inside the dungeon is impossible.
Navigating the Lair and Maintaining Stealth
Upon arriving in the House of Hope, players are greeted by Hope, a tormented soul trapped within the fortress. She offers disguises that allow your party to move around without immediately triggering aggressive encounters from the residents. Exploring discreetly gives you the opportunity to locate valuable treasures, such as the Helldusk Helmet and the Staff of Spellpower hidden behind secret walls.
Eventually, your main objective will lead you to the Archive, where Raphael keeps his prize possessions locked away. Players seeking to free Orpheus can locate the Orphic Hammer here, alongside other rare equipment like the Amulet of Greater Health. Stealing the hammer or tearing up your contract triggers alarm bells, turning the entire mansion hostile.
Rescuing Hope and Escaping Avernus
Before making your final exit, you can choose to descend into the lower prison to shatter Hope's chains. Using the Orphic Hammer allows you to break her bonds after defeating the deadly Spectators guarding her cell. Rescuing her grants your party a powerful Cleric companion during the climax of the quest.
To leave the realm, you must return to the main entrance foyer, where Raphael waits to intercept you. The resulting boss fight requires careful tactical planning, targeting soul pillars, and utilizing high-level spells to survive. Victorious players are rewarded with top-tier loot and a successful escape back to the Lower City.