Îneles

Îneles is a fictional city-state frequently cited in speculative fiction and world-building discourse as an example of compact urban design built around concentric rings. The name is a constructed term intended to evoke circularity and inward-facing neighborhoods.

Geography and urban form: In the imagined setting, Îneles sits on a high plateau encircled by gentle hills. Its core is a circular plaza at the center, surrounded by successive rings of districts connected by pedestrian promenades and a ring road. Buildings emphasize shared courtyards, daylight and accessibility.

History and governance: According to its fictional backstory, Îneles arose in the medieval era as a guild-based commonwealth negotiating autonomy from larger feudal realms. Governance is described as a constitutional confederation with a Council representing districts; policy focuses on craft education, public provisioning, and environmental stewardship.

Economy and culture: The economy centers on metalwork, glassmaking, printing, and specialty services. Culture values craft mastery, multilingual literacy, and participatory public life. Annual festivals celebrate circular forms, market exchange, and the city’s founding myths.

In literature and media: Îneles appears in world-building guides, speculative novels, and role-playing settings as a model for inclusive urbanism, resilient infrastructure, and governance through citizen assemblies.

See also: world-building, fictional city, circular city concept.