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How to Find a Stronghold in Minecraft

Minecraft Stronghold
Mojang Studios

While exploring Minecraft’s sandbox worlds, you will find a vast array of structures. Some are rarer than others and the Stronghold, an underground labyrinth housing the End Portal, is one of the most elusive locations in Minecraft.

Depending on which version of Minecraft you’re playing, Strongholds can be limited in number and are much sought-after locations. Nevertheless, there are a few methods to find a Stronghold in Minecraft, and in this guide, you will find the most effective of them.

4 Methods to Find a Stronghold in Minecraft

Minecraft stronghold overhead
Mojang Studios

1. Vanilla Minecraft: The Intended Way

Vanilla Minecraft
Mojang Studios

The traditional way, and the only method that doesn’t involve altering the game, is by crafting Eyes of Ender. When thrown, these items hint at the stronghold’s direction by traveling toward it. Be prepared to venture into the Nether to collect Blaze Rods, a key ingredient for crafting Eyes of Ender.

2. Creative Mode

Creative Mode
Mojang Studios

Creative Mode is a shortcut to so many things. You need to enable Creative Mode yourself or via operator permissions, which will then give you access to an unlimited supply of Eyes of Ender. This allows you to quickly locate a stronghold without venturing into the Nether. Remember, you can always switch back to Survival Mode after acquiring the Eyes for a more challenging stronghold hunt.

3. Using Commands

Commands Stronghold Minecraft
Mojang Studios

Another method, similar to Creative Mode, involves using commands. By typing /locate structure minecraft:stronghold (requires cheats enabled), you’ll receive coordinates pointing to the nearest stronghold. Click on the highlighted coordinates to teleport directly there. Keep in mind that this method might differ slightly depending on the Minecraft version.

4. Custom Seeds

Stronghold Seed Minecraft
Mojang Studios

There is another way that proves challenging but also helpful. By using custom seeds, you will be shown the direction you should head in. These world generation codes can place strongholds closer to the spawn point, making them easier to find in Survival Mode. Search online for custom seeds compatible with your Minecraft version. While you’ll still need to craft Eyes of Ender to pinpoint the exact location, knowing a Stronghold is nearby can be a big advantage.

Once you stumble upon a Stronghold in Minecraft, be ready to explore corridors full of monster-filled cells and lots of loot. Nevertheless, the most important part of the Stronghold is that you can activate and enter the End dimension, leading you to an epic showdown against the Ender Dragon.

This is all you need to know about finding a Stronghold in Minecraft – we hope we have helped you!