Malwas

Malwas is a fictional town and commune in the central lowlands of Zeridia, a hypothetical nation. It lies along the Malwas River, about 75 kilometers north of Zeridia's capital, Ardentia. The municipality covers 86 square kilometers and had an estimated population of 12,400 in 2023. The name is derived from a local term meaning "meeting place."

Malwas sits in a fertile river valley with alluvial soils and a temperate climate. The surrounding landscape includes farmland, small orchards, and a belt of deciduous woodland to the north. The river and its tributaries support irrigation for cereal crops and vineyards.

Evidence of settlement dates to the medieval period. Malwas received formal municipal status in 1832. The arrival of the railway in 1904 boosted trade, and the town experienced growth in the mid-20th century, diversifying from agriculture into light manufacturing and services.

Today, Malwas's economy centers on agriculture and agro-processing, with cereals, fruits, and wine being major products. Small-scale manufacturing and a growing service sector complement the rural base. The town is served by a regional road network and a small train station.

Malwas is governed by a mayor-council system, with a seven-member municipal council. It is divided into three districts: Eastgate, Riverside, and Northquarter. The population is predominantly Zeridian-speaking, with a mix of commuters and long-term residents. Cultural life centers on the annual Malwas Festival, local markets, and historic landmarks such as the 15th-century Malwas Cathedral and the Old Bridge.