Falsaz

Falsaz is a fictional coastal town commonly featured in speculative fiction and tabletop role-playing games as a representative settlement in the Therinian realm. The name is often described as arising from ancient Therinian roots, with fal meaning harbor and saz meaning watch in some fictional etymologies.

Geography and climate: The town sits on a crescent bay with a natural harbor, sheltered by a headland. The surrounding landscape includes low hills and olive groves, and the climate is temperate maritime, with mild winters and warm summers.

History: Falsaz developed as a trading post in the medieval period and grew under the Therinian League, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries. A major earthquake in the late 17th century damaged the town, and rebuilding shaped its present layout and architecture.

Economy and demographics: The economy centers on fishing, small-scale shipbuilding, and crafts. The population is typically depicted as around 9,000 residents, with a mix of fishermen, merchants, and artisans forming the local community.

Culture and language: In fiction, the Falsazi language or dialect is a Romance-based creole used in markets and daily life. Local cuisine emphasizes seafood, olive oil, and citrus. Annual events include the Gale Festival in spring and the Harbor Market, attracting visitors from neighboring towns.

Landmarks and transportation: Notable landmarks include the Old Lighthouse and Market Square. The harbor serves small-boat traffic, and roads connect Falsaz to larger urban centers, with occasional ferry routes shown in maps within donor works of fiction.

Administration: In most depictions, Falsaz is part of the Therinian archipelago and governed by a town council and a mayor.