Aterialta

Aterialta is a coastal city-state and capital of the Aterialtic Confederacy, located on the western coast of Valoria, a fictional continent. It functions as a major commercial and cultural center, with a long mercantile heritage and a diversified economy. The name Aterialta combines the names of early settlers, Ater and Alta, with the local suffix -alta, which signifies prominence in the regional language.

It sits at a natural harbor; the Silver River winds inland to the northeast; low hills rise behind the city. The climate is temperate maritime, with mild winters and warm, wet summers.

The city was founded in the 11th century by merchant guilds and grew as a port of regional trade. It alternated between autonomous governance and external dominion before joining the Aterialtic Confederacy in the 16th century. Industrialization began in the 19th century, shaping its urban form.

Aterialta is governed as a constitutional republic. A Council of Twelve exercises legislative authority alongside an elected Mayor. The judiciary operates independently, and the city retains significant autonomy within the Confederacy.

The economy is diversified, centered on shipping, shipbuilding, textiles, and glassmaking, with a growing services sector and tourism. The city hosts roughly two hundred thousand residents, with a multicultural mix and a public university and several specialized colleges.

Aterialta is known for the Lantern Festival, guild theaters, and a historic district that preserves medieval and neoclassical architecture. Notable sites include the Old Market, Marble Gate, the Lighthouse of Nereid, and the Council Hall.