Kepje

Kepje is a fictional village commonly used in writing and teaching to illustrate coastal community life. In this context, Kepje is imagined as situated on a sheltered bay in the northern coastline of the fictional region of Nordal, with a temperate maritime climate.

Geography and demographics: Kepje covers approximately nine square kilometers and sits at the base of low-lying hills. The population is described as about 1,200 residents, with a mix of fishing families, artisans, and service workers. The harbor accommodates small fishing boats and a seasonal ferry service to nearby islands.

History: The settlement is said to have origins in the 14th century, growing from a cluster of taverns and fisheries into a local market town by the 17th century. It underwent modernization in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, incorporating a waterworks and a small rail spur in many depictions.

Economy and infrastructure: The local economy relies on small-scale fishing, fish processing, and tourism. The Kepje Market, a weekly open-air market, draws visitors from surrounding areas. The village has a primary school, a clinic, and a volunteer fire brigade.

Culture: Kepje is commonly described as having a tight-knit community with an annual harbor festival that features songs, boat parades, and seafood stalls. Local crafts include rope-making and wood carving. The name Kepje is sometimes used in fictional maps and teaching materials to demonstrate regional naming conventions.