Aquinass

Aquinass is a coastal city and regional capital on the southeastern coast of Valora, a fictional continent. In 2023 it is estimated to have 320,000 residents and covers roughly 250 square kilometers, serving as a hub for commerce, transport, and culture.

The name Aquinass is believed to derive from Latin aqua, meaning water, with a local suffix denoting place or people. The toponym reflects the city’s waterways and its long association with seafaring.

Geographically, Aquinass sits in a low-lying delta at the mouth of the Lase River, along a crescent coastline. The climate is temperate maritime, with mild winters, warm summers, and annual rainfall around 750 millimeters.

Historically, Aquinass began as a ninth-century fishing settlement and grew into a free port by the 15th century. It subsequently industrialized in the 19th and 20th centuries, linking to regional trade networks and modern infrastructure.

Governance is a mayor-council system within the Aquinass Prefecture. The city council elects a mayor for a four-year term. The population is diverse, reflecting coastal communities, migrant groups, and a sizable student population.

The economy centers on the port, logistics, fishing, and seafood processing, complemented by tourism and light manufacturing. Transport includes Aquinass International Airport, a metropolitan rail network, and a busy harbor handling container and bulk cargo.

Culturally, Aquinass hosts museums, theatres, and a university campus. The annual Festival of Water and Light along the quays is a notable event. Local cuisine emphasizes seafood, citrus, and rice dishes.