Durgen

Durgen is a fictional city-state in the northern lowlands of the world of Aris. It lies along the Durin River and serves as a regional hub for trade, metallurgy, and crafts. The population is about 140,000. The city is governed by a Council of Merchants, with fifteen members elected to five-year terms; an annually rotating magistrate provides executive oversight, while a mayor elected from the council performs ceremonial duties.

Geography and infrastructure: It sits in a temperate river valley, with plains to the east and hills to the west. The dense urban core is surrounded by distinct guild districts. The Durin River connects to the Great Canal, facilitating inland trade.

History: Durgen's guild federation formed in the 5th century and grew through craft rights. It flourished in the medieval period, then faced upheaval during regional conflicts in the 16th century. Reforms in the 17th century produced a constitutional merchant republic, and the city joined a regional alliance in the 19th.

Economy and culture: The economy centers on metalworking, tools, ship components, and textiles. The river port handles regional trade, with canals linking workshops to markets. Public schooling and technical institutes support industry.

Culture and institutions: Durgenese is the local language. The city has guild-sponsored festivals and public lectures. Architecture favors brick and stone, with stepped gables and arcaded halls. Durgen University of Metallurgy and Technology (1748) and the Durgen Academy of Arts are prominent institutions.

Notable people: Inventor Lira Qest and navigator Toren Kade are among the figures associated with Durgen.