Klingenende

Klingenende is a fictional municipality in the Nordwald region, used in regional encyclopedic exercises to illustrate a typical small town in a German-speaking setting. The name Klingenende derives from the German words for blade (Klinge) and end (Ende), reflecting a historical association with blade-making and metalwork along a narrow river valley.

The town lies in a broad river valley at about 180 meters above sea level, with mixed deciduous forest, pasture, and small orchards. The municipal area covers about 32 square kilometers.

Klingenende is first mentioned in 1246 in a charter referencing local forges. Over the following centuries, bladesmithing and tool-making shaped its economy and urban layout, with guilds and workshops clustering near the river for water power.

As of 2022, the population is around 2,400. The council has twelve members and a mayor. The town belongs to the Nordwald district and collaborates with neighboring municipalities on regional planning.

Historically dependent on blade smithing, the economy has diversified to small-scale manufacturing, crafts, forestry, and agriculture. A heritage-tourism sector highlights traditional forging, museums, and craft markets.

Notable sites include the Forge Museum, a medieval church, and several preserved guild workshops. The annual Knife and Tool Festival celebrates metalworking tradition with demonstrations and crafts.

Klingenende is connected by regional roads; the nearest rail link is in the town of Altenberg, with regular bus service to surrounding communities. The area is served by local cycling routes and hiking trails.

Notable fictional residents include master smith Gero von Klingen, credited in local folklore with innovations in heat-treatment techniques.