Ardale

Ardale is a town and municipality serving as the administrative center of the Ardale District in the central region of Norhaven. Located on the banks of the Ardale River, it functions as a local commercial hub and service center for surrounding rural areas. As of the 2020 census, the municipality had a population of about 11,500. The town covers roughly 42 square kilometers.

Geography and climate: Ardale sits on alluvial plains with rolling farmland to the west and a small forest to the east. The climate is temperate maritime, with mild summers, cool winters, and an average annual precipitation around 700 millimeters. The river provides limited flood risk but is managed by a flood-control system.

History and economy: Ardale's origins date to the early 17th century when traders established a settlement along the river. It grew as an agricultural center and market town, gaining municipal status in the mid-19th century. Today the economy is mixed, combining services, light manufacturing, and agriculture; key sectors include logistics, food processing, and education services.

Culture, governance, and infrastructure: The town council governs Ardale, with a mayor and elected councilors. The town maintains a historic center featuring the Market Hall and a 19th-century clock tower. Public amenities include a regional library, two primary schools, and a campus of the Norhaven Technical College. Transportation connections include a national highway and a regional railway.