Martyrien

Martyrien is a fictional world and setting featured in the *Martyrium* series of novels by the German author Michael Arndt. The series explores a post-apocalyptic future where humanity has been devastated by a global catastrophe known as the "Great Collapse," which is later revealed to be the result of a failed experiment in terraforming Mars. The collapse led to widespread societal collapse, resource scarcity, and the rise of brutal regimes.

The story is primarily set in the ruins of what was once Europe, with key locations including the former German city of Berlin, now a lawless wasteland known as "The Ruins," and the fortified city-state of "Neo-Berlin," ruled by the authoritarian "Iron Council." The narrative follows characters navigating this harsh world, where survival often depends on loyalty to factions, gangs, or ideologies. Themes of survival, morality, and the struggle for order in chaos are central to the series.

Martyrien is characterized by its bleak yet detailed depiction of a world where technology has regressed, and humanity has adapted through harsh necessity. The setting includes remnants of the old world, such as abandoned infrastructure, scavenged technology, and the occasional functioning power plant or military outpost. The environment is often hostile, with radiation, disease, and rival factions posing constant threats.

The name "Martyrien" itself is derived from the Latin *martyr*, reflecting the series' focus on sacrifice, endurance, and the struggles of those who endure in the aftermath of collapse. The world is rich in lore, with references to pre-collapse history, religious cults, and political ideologies that shape the conflicts of the story. While the series is speculative fiction, it draws inspiration from real-world post-apocalyptic themes, dystopian politics, and survivalist narratives.

The *Martyrium* series has gained a cult following for its immersive world-building and exploration of human resilience in extreme conditions. Though not as widely known as some other post-apocalyptic works, it offers a unique perspective on the potential futures of humanity in the face of catastrophic failure.