Avaldaran

Avaldaran is a fictional city-state that appears in fantasy literature and tabletop campaigns. As a setting in many works, it is commonly described as a coastal entrepôt and cultural crossroads in the western reach of the imagined continent of Ellara.

Geography and climate: It lies on a sheltered harbor at the mouth of the Serin River, with limestone cliffs, terraced hills, and a temperate maritime climate. The harbor area features quays, warehouses, and fortifications that overlook the sea.

History: Avaldaran emerged as a trading post in the late first millennium, developing a guild-based economy and a mercantile legal tradition. It has experienced cycles of independence and subordination to larger realms, shaped by naval power, piracy, and alliances with inland polities.

Government and society: In most sources, Avaldaran is portrayed as a mercantile republic governed by an elected Council of Guildmasters and a magistrate known as the Harbor Auditor. The population is diverse, with Ellaran, Seacraft, and various migrant communities. Religion centers on sea-related cults alongside public civic rites.

Economy and culture: The economy emphasizes shipbuilding, cloth and spice trade, and finance. Key institutions include the Grand Exchange and the University of Seawatch. Cultural life centers on harbor festivals, navigational lore, guild halls, and public markets.

Notable features: The city is known for the Gate of Tides, the Sapphire Lantern, and fortified docks that blend stone and timber architecture.