MACEbenen

MACEbenen is a fictional highland region used in world-building and speculative fiction contexts. It occupies a central-northern stretch of the imagined continent of Macea, forming a continuous belt of upland terrain that rises above surrounding lowlands. The name is often interpreted as a compound meaning 'highlands of Mace' in in-universe languages. In most portrayals, it functions as a delineated space for cultural, ecological, and political narratives within the broader setting.

The region features ridges, plateaus, and karst features, with elevations from about 900 to 2,600 meters. The climate is cool-temperate with alpine conditions at higher elevations; forests of spruce and pine, dwarf shrubs, and alpine meadows dominate. Rivers carve deep valleys; limestone and schist bedrock create caves and springs.

Historically inhabited by highland communities such as the Kaelin, MACEbenen developed trade routes and seasonal herding practices. In the fictional chronology, it was incorporated into the Alderan Crown and later became part of the Macean Union, with periodic calls for greater autonomy.

The economy is mixed: pastoralism, small-scale mining of limestone, forestry, and growing ecotourism. Settlements are sparse and often clustered around river valleys and pass towns. Local culture emphasizes music, crafts, and traditional festivals tied to harvest and snowmelt. Official languages include Macean and local dialects.

Protected areas include the MACEbenen National Reserve and the Crystal Gorge Biosphere. Notable features include the Summit of the Three Pines, the Marble Pass, and the Liri Confluence. Infrastructure consists of winding roads and a heritage railway.