Archadia

Archadia is a coastal city-state in a temperate region, situated along a sheltered harbor and surrounded by hills. It functions as a commercial and scholarly center, attracting merchants, artisans, and students from across the realm. The city is known for its durable masonry, light-filled public spaces, and a governance system that blends traditional authority with reform-minded institutions.

Historically, Archadia grew as a maritime trading post in the early Middle Ages and expanded into a city-state through alliances among guilds and scholarly societies. It is governed by a Council of Consuls and a Rector who serves as head of state, operating under a written constitution and a civil-law tradition supplemented by customary law. District councils handle local administration, while an independent judiciary oversees civil and commercial disputes.

The economy is diversified, with port trade, shipbuilding, stonework, and crafts providing employment. The University of Archadia and its libraries attract researchers and students, while markets feature manuscripts, glassware, and metalwork. Cultural life centers on public festivals, philosophical discourse, and architectural conservation.

Notable landmarks include the Glass Atrium, the Grand Library, and the Citadel of Archons. The Archadian Festival of Light, held annually, draws visitors from neighboring regions. The population numbers around 100,000 to 120,000 and includes multiple immigrant communities, with a strong guild network shaping social and economic life.

The Port of Lumen serves as the main international hub, connected to a modest tram network and walkable urban cores. Urban planning emphasizes heritage preservation, flood resilience, and sustainable growth, seeking to balance commerce with livability.