Sanctuary

Sanctuary is a defensive shield runeword in Diablo 2 Resurrected created with Ko + Ko + Mal in any 3-socket shield. Designed for maximum survivability, it offers exceptional resistances, blocking stats, and defensive bonuses, making it the most defense-oriented shield runeword in the game.

Maximum Resistance Potential

Sanctuary's standout feature is all resistances +50-70, which becomes extraordinary when made in Paladin shields. Elite Paladin shields can spawn with up to +45% all resistances. Combined with Sanctuary's roll, a perfect shield can reach +115% all resistances on a single item—an unmatched value that trivializes resistance requirements in Hell difficulty.

Comprehensive Defensive Stats

Beyond resistances, Sanctuary provides excellent blocking and survivability: +20% faster hit recovery, +20% faster block rate, 20% increased chance of blocking, and +20 to dexterity all synergize to create a nearly unbreakable defensive shield. The +130-160% enhanced defense and +250 defense versus missile further boost physical protection, while magic damage reduced by 7 helps against casters. The level 12 Slow Missiles (60 charges) provides utility against ranged attackers.

Best Uses & Builds

Paladin Melee Builds

Sanctuary excels on melee Paladins—Zealots, Smiters, and Avengers—who need massive resistances without sacrificing blocking. The FHR and FBR help reach crucial breakpoints for safer combat. When made in a Sacred Targe or Kurast Shield with high inherent resistances, it creates an elite defensive shield.

PvP Applications

The combination of max block, high resistances, and magic damage reduction makes Sanctuary popular in PvP, particularly against casters. The 115% all resistance potential allows players to max resistances while focusing other gear slots on offense.

Competition & Cost

Sanctuary faces stiff competition from other shields. Spirit offers +2 to all skills and faster cast rate for casters. Herald of Zakarum provides +2 to all skills and +2 to Paladin skills, making it superior for Hammerdins. Exile offers Defiance aura and Life Tap for melee builds but costs significantly more. A shield with four perfect diamonds provides +76% all resistances for much cheaper.

Best Bases

For Paladins, use elite shields like Sacred Targe (60% base block) or Vortex Shield with high inherent all resistance rolls. For other classes, use any 3 open-socket shield you have, depending on your strength requirements.