Menolie

Menolie is a rural town in the southern basin of Ardentia, located along the Lyr River. It is the administrative center of Menolie County and had an estimated population of 8,400 in 2023. The town sits at the intersection of agricultural lands and forested hills, with a temperate, maritime climate that supports crops such as wheat, corn, and apples.

History: Menolie traces its origins to a 12th‑century market settlement founded by river traders. It grew through the medieval period as a center for textiles and grain storage. The town received a municipal charter in the 17th century and developed a grid of streets around a central square.

Economy: The local economy is diversified, combining farming, light manufacturing, and services. Dairy farming and viticulture on surrounding slopes contribute to regional supply chains, while small workshops produce furniture and clothing. Tourism focuses on outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and heritage trails.

Infrastructure: Menolie is connected by regional roads to the national highway network. Public transit is provided by a daily bus service; there is a small airfield used mainly for charter flights and emergency landings.

Education and culture: The town operates two primary schools and one secondary school, with a public library and a community cultural center. An annual Harvest Festival and a farmers’ market are held in the central square, drawing visitors from nearby towns.

Notable people: Elena Sarrin, a contemporary fiction writer, and Jonas Kade, a botanist who studied the local flora.