Aldoria

Aldoria is a fictional coastal city-state on the eastern frontier of the continent of Valora. It blends maritime trade with scholarly study and has a long history as a crossroad for merchants, seafarers, and magi. The name Aldoria is of uncertain origin, appearing in ancient maps and local chronicles.

Aldoria sits at a natural harbor sheltered by limestone cliffs. The surrounding hinterland includes riverine delta wetlands and rolling farmland. The climate is temperate with dry summers and wet winters.

Historically, the city was founded as a trading outpost in antiquity and grew through commerce and learning. It emerged as a semi-autonomous city-state after a series of maritime leagues and treaties, maintaining independence through a policy of armed neutrality.

Aldoria is a republic with a unicameral Assembly and an executive Rector elected for a five-year term. The Assembly represents guilds, merchants, and the learned orders. Local governance emphasizes rule of law and free trade, with magistrates serving brief terms.

The population is diverse, including humans, elves, and other peoples who have settled for trade or study. Aldorian is the official language; many residents also speak regional dialects and a common lingua franca. The city hosts libraries, academies, and theaters; religious life centers on a council of temples rather than a state church.

The harbor handles bulk goods, spices, timber, and magical artifacts. Key sites include the Great Harbor, the Vault of Echoes (arcane archive), and the Sea Gate fortress. Festivals of lanterns and markets highlight the civic calendar.