Aldeá

Aldeá is a small municipality and parish in the Monteluz region of Valdoria, a fictional country used here for illustrative purposes. The name derives from aldeia, a local form of the word for village, reflecting its origins as a rural settlement.

Geography and climate: Aldeá sits in a sheltered valley at approximately 120 meters above sea level, with a mild, Mediterranean-influenced climate. The surrounding landscape features croplands, olive groves, and pine-covered hills. The Silvén River flows to the east, shaping local agriculture and history.

History: Archaeological finds indicate continuous habitation since the Iron Age, with the medieval period marking growth as an agricultural market town. The parish church, dating to the 12th century, remains a regional landmark and a focal point of local heritage.

Administration: Aldeá is governed by a town council elected for four-year terms, with a mayor acting as executive. The council oversees local services, urban planning, and cultural programs, while committees handle heritage and economic development.

Demographics and economy: The municipality has a population of roughly 4,000 to 4,500 residents, depending on the census. The economy is primarily agricultural, with grapes and olives as core crops, complemented by small-scale manufacturing and rural tourism. Local cooperatives support farmers and traditional crafts.

Culture and landmarks: Aldeá hosts an annual harvest festival and maintains a weekly market. Notable sites include the 12th-century parish church, the historic town square, and a restored windmill on the hillside. Local cuisine emphasizes olive oil, rustic bread, and goat cheese.

Transport: Aldeá is connected by regional roads; the nearest railway services and larger facilities are located in neighboring towns about 15 to 25 kilometers away.