Blavi

Blavi is a fictional city-state used in speculative fiction and role-playing settings to illustrate a maritime trading polity. It is portrayed as a coastal archipelago with a busy port, a long mercantile tradition, and a distinctive local culture.

Geography and demographics: The Blavi Archipelago comprises seven major islands, with the capital, Blavi City, situated on Central Island. The climate is temperate maritime, with mild winters and humid summers. Population estimates in fictional depictions range around 120,000, reflecting a mix of long-term residents and traders drawn to the port. The primary language is Blavi, a creole-derived tongue, while Eldorian serves as a common lingua franca in official and commercial settings.

History: Blavi's lore traces its origins to medieval trading communities that grew into a politically autonomous city-state within a loose regional confederation. Throughout its history, Blavi emphasized commercial law, navigation, and guild-based governance, occasionally forming strategic alliances with neighboring polities to secure trade routes.

Government and society: Governance centers on a merchant council known as the Selo, supplemented by a mayor selected from among prominent trade families. The constitution emphasizes property rights, contract law, and civic participation. Society features a strong guild presence, urban education, and a tradition of public markets and performances.

Economy and culture: The port economy focuses on textiles, spices, and ship repair, with ancillary crafts and banking services. Blavi culture highlights maritime cuisine, music, and theatre, and hosts annual festivals that celebrate the sea and trade. Landmarks in fictional depictions often include grand marketplaces and sea-facing fortifications.

Notable features: Lumen Bridge, Grand Bazaar, and the Blue Citadel are commonly cited as emblematic sites in Blavi’s urban landscape.