Glaren

Glaren is a fictional town in the northern highlands of Valyr, serving as the administrative center of the Glaren District. It has a population of about 4,500 and sits along the Bracken River, where centuries of trade have left a dense core of stone structures dating from the 15th to the 18th centuries.

Geography and climate: The town lies on river terraces between rolling hills. The climate is temperate, with mild summers and frequent fog, especially in autumn and spring. The Bracken River historically powered mills and supported small-scale fishing and irrigation for nearby farms.

History: The area around Glaren was settled in the early medieval period and grew around a defensive keep erected in the 12th century. A town charter was granted in 1275, and the economy prospered through timber and textile trades. A major fire in 1682 led to rebuilding in the 18th century. The arrival of a regional road in the 19th century spurred further growth and integration with nearby settlements.

Economy and infrastructure: Today, the economy combines timber, textiles, agriculture, and light manufacturing. The town hosts a weekly market, maintains a small river port, and has a road link to the regional capital. Educational facilities include a primary school and a secondary academy.

Culture and governance: Glaren preserves a regional dialect and hosts the annual Glaren Festival of Crafts. Landmarks include the Old Gate, Glaren Keep, and Market Hall. It is governed by a town council led by a mayor and supported by local committees.

Notable people: The town is associated with several artisans and scholars from past centuries, though historical records are fragmentary.