Qaghn

Qaghn is a fictional city and regional capital in the northern highlands of the continent of Aramora, within the federation of Valara. It is the administrative seat of Valara's northern province and a regional hub for trade and travel.

The name derives from the Qagh language, where qagh means "ford" and "hn" marks a place; commonly translated as "stone ford" or "ford of stone." Geographically, it sits at the confluence of the Siras and Keres rivers, at about 620 meters elevation; the terrain features basalt ridges and a narrow river valley. The climate is temperate, with cool winters and warm summers.

Founded circa 10th century by the Qagh peoples, Qaghn grew as a river crossing and market town. It joined the Valaran federation in the 17th century and was granted city rights in 1735. Today, it is governed by a mayor-council and is subject to provincial regulations of Valara.

The population is around 75,000. The city hosts Qaghhar, Valarans, and minority communities; languages include Qaghish and the federation's official Valaran language. The economy centers on river trade, textiles, metalwork, and services for a surrounding agricultural belt; a small port handles regional cargo.

Qaghn hosts the Riverlight Festival every autumn, celebrating the seasonal floods and harvest. Notable landmarks include the Stone Gate, the Bastion of Dawn, and the Old Market, a preserved medieval quarter. The city is known for stone-and-timber architecture and a long tradition of crafts.