Arqir

Arqir is a fictional city-state in the fantasy world of Valoria, appearing in novels, games, and world-building guides. It functions as a major trading hub and political center.

Located on the eastern shore of the Bay of Nethra, at the mouth of the Ilyrian River, Arqir occupies a waterfront crescent with a harbor district below a hilltop fortress. The climate is maritime temperate, with seasonal sea breezes that shape shipping and ship design.

Founded by seafaring families after migrations from western shores, Arqir rose to regional prominence during the Age of Spires. It endured sieges in the War of Salt and later expanded through maritime diplomacy and trade agreements such as the Great Treaty of Nethra.

Governed by the Council of Merchants, composed of guild chiefs and shipowners, Arqir is headed by a magistrate chosen for two-year terms. The economy centers on shipbuilding, glass and ceramics, spice import, and a financial market known as the Arqir Bourse.

The population is multilingual, with Arqiri serving as the lingua franca for merchants and sailors. Architecture blends arcaded streets, wind towers, and terraced housing. Notable landmarks include Harbor Gate, the Pearl Market, Tide Cathedral, and Lantern Plaza.

In modern fantasy media, Arqir is used as a case study of a cosmopolitan mercantile city-state, illustrating urban diplomacy, guild power, and cross-cultural exchange.