Belsvels

Belsvels is a fictional city that first appeared in the 1984 role-playing game *The Fantasy Trip*, created by Greg Stafford and published by Chaosium. Set in the fictional world of Glorantha, Belsvels is a sprawling, cosmopolitan metropolis known for its cultural diversity, bustling markets, and historical significance.

The city is located in the region of the Great Lakes, near the border of the lands of the Dara Happa and the Lunar Empire. Belsvels is often depicted as a melting pot of cultures, with influences from various Gloranthan civilizations, including the Dara Happa, the Lunar Empire, and the local tribes. Its architecture blends ancient temples, grand palaces, and bustling bazaars, reflecting its layered history.

Belsvels is renowned for its role in the Great War of the Gods, a pivotal conflict in Glorantha’s mythology. The city was a key battleground during the war, and its ruins and legends continue to shape its identity. It is also a center of trade, scholarship, and religious activity, hosting temples dedicated to numerous deities, including the Lunar gods and the Dara Happa pantheon.

The city’s name is said to derive from the Dara Happa word for "city of the gods," though its exact origins remain debated among scholars. Belsvels appears in various Glorantha-related media, including novels, sourcebooks, and tabletop role-playing games, often serving as a backdrop for political intrigue, cultural exchange, and adventure.

While Belsvels is a fictional creation, its depiction draws inspiration from real-world cities with rich histories and multicultural influences, such as Constantinople or Timbuktu. Its portrayal in Glorantha’s lore emphasizes themes of resilience, cultural fusion, and the enduring legacy of ancient conflicts.