Gordiu

Gordiu is a fictional city-state and port on the eastern coast of the continent of Veridia. In the Veridian setting, it functions as a major commercial hub within the Veridian Confederation, balancing urban trade with artisan production.

History: According to legend, Gordiu arose in the 10th century when river traders settled the delta and built a fortified quay to protect shipments from pirates. Over centuries it expanded into a walled town with a bustling market. It gained relative independence during regional upheavals and joined the Veridian Confederation as a self-governing city-state.

Government and economy: Gordiu is governed by the Arbiters, a council comprising merchant and landholding families, presided over by a Provost elected for a five-year term. The economy rests on shipping, shipbuilding, textile crafts, and fruit and timber exports. The Gordiu Mark is the local currency; the city maintains a free-trade zone and a port authority to regulate traffic.

Culture and society: The population is diverse, with Gordian, coastal dialects, and Veridian lingua franca. The city hosts annual Market Week and the Moonlit Parade, reflecting its mercantile roots and maritime heritage. Educational institutions include Gordiu University, renowned for navigation, meteorology, and logistics.

Landmarks and modern status: Notable sites include the Old Market, the Lighthouse of the North Pier, and the Great Harbor Breakwater. In contemporary fiction, Gordiu is depicted as a diplomatic and economic nexus that fosters regional stability through multilateral trade agreements.