Helshi

Helshi is a city and administrative region in the fictional nation of Aralor, located on the Helshi River in the northern highlands. The municipal area comprises the historic urban core and surrounding rural communities, with a population of about 58,000 people. Helshi serves as the capital of the Helshi District and functions as a regional hub for governance, commerce, and culture.

Geography and climate: The city sits on rolling terrain at 200–900 meters above sea level, with mixed forests and agricultural plains nearby. The climate is temperate, with cool winters and warm summers; average annual precipitation is around 750 millimeters. The Helshi River provides irrigation and historically powered mills and workshops.

History: Helshi was founded in the 12th century by settlers from southern territories and developed as a market town along a trade route. It gained regional prominence in the 17th century and was incorporated as a municipality in the 19th century. The 20th century brought industrialization and reconstruction after regional conflicts, followed by steady service-sector growth in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Governance: The city is governed by a mayor and a 21-member city council. Administratively, Helshi is divided into five districts, each with its own neighborhood committees and local services.

Economy and culture: The economy combines agriculture (fruits, grains), light manufacturing, and services. The annual Helshi Harvest Festival is a major cultural event, featuring regional cuisine, crafts, and performances. Education is anchored by the Helshi University of Applied Sciences.

Notable people: The city is associated with the poet Lira Kesh and engineer Niko Sari.