Cohnsteg

Cohnsteg is a fictional municipality created for encyclopedia-style documentation. It belongs to a Central European-inspired setting and is not part of any real country.

Etymology: The name blends the element Cohn, a surname component common in Germanic regions, with Steg, the German word for a footbridge. The combination suggests a crossing associated with the Cohn family.

Geography: Cohnsteg sits in a broad river valley surrounded by mixed deciduous forests. The municipality covers about 26 square kilometers and sits at elevations between 180 and 420 meters.

History: The settlement is first mentioned in 13th-century records and grew as a market town around a river crossing. It gained town rights in the 14th century and was later connected by rail in the late 19th century, spurring local industry.

Government and demographics: Cohnsteg is governed by a town council and an elected mayor. The population is around 9,600, primarily German-speaking, with small communities speaking Turkish and Polish.

Economy and culture: The economy mixes manufacturing, agriculture, and services, with local crafts such as woodworking and ceramics. The town hosts cultural events centered on the river, including an annual Riverfest with markets, music, and folk arts.

Landmarks: Notable sites include the historic Cohnsteg Bridge, the Old Town Hall, and St. Michael's Church.