Ilganlan

Ilganlan is a fictional town and regional center in the central highlands of the continent of Eldara. It lies in a sandstone valley carved by the Milla River, with terraced fields, olive-gray stone houses, and a narrow main street that climbs toward a hillside monastery. The town experiences a temperate montane climate, with warm summers and cool, wet winters.

Name and language: The name Ilganlan is generally attributed to Old Eldari roots il- “gather” and ganlan “valley,” though local spellings vary and the origin is disputed among historians.

History: Ilganlan is said to have been founded in the 9th century by caravanners traveling the mountain pass between the eastern plateau and western lowlands. It grew as a local market town and relay point for traders, craftspeople, and pilgrims. The town was twice sacked in medieval conflicts but rebuilt, and in modern times it developed a small industrial quarter focused on textiles and ceramics.

Governance and population: The town is the seat of a local council under the jurisdiction of the Eldaran provincial prefecture. Its population is roughly 3,000 residents, collectively known as Ilganlani, with a mix of farming families, artisans, and shopkeepers.

Economy and culture: The economy centers on agriculture (grains and olives), crafts (pottery and weaving), and tourism oriented to its hillside monastery and weekly market. The Harvest Moon Festival, with lanterns and candle-lit processions, is the principal cultural event.

Notable features: The Milla River gorge, the hillside Monastery of the Shifting Light, and a medieval stone bridge across the river are among Ilganlan’s well-known landmarks.