Selgaric

Selgaric is a fictional city-state and cultural region frequently used in fantasy literature and role-playing games. It is typically described as a coastal and riverine polity on the eastern shore of a temperate continent, with a fortified harbor, a river valley, and a mix of urban and agricultural lands. The regional capital is also named Selgaric in many works.

History and politics: The narratives that feature Selgaric place its origins in early medieval trading settlements that coalesced into a city-state by the 11th century. It developed as a maritime center, maintaining a degree of political autonomy through surrounding periods of empire and conflict. In modern depictions, Selgaric is often portrayed as gradually adopting representative institutions while preserving local oligarchic influence.

Government and administration: In most sources, Selgaric is described as a constitutional or oligarchic republic with an elected council that governs alongside a magistrate or mayor. The council typically handles legislation, finance, and foreign policy, while the executive office oversees administration and ceremonial duties.

Economy and society: Selgaric's economy centers on port trade, shipbuilding, fishing, and light textiles, supported by agriculture in the inland terraces. Population estimates vary by source but are typically placed in the low hundreds of thousands, with diverse neighborhoods and a cosmopolitan trading culture.

Culture and landmarks: The culture combines coastal trading traditions with inland agrarian practices. The language known as Selgaric (often with a regional dialect), cuisine emphasizing seafood and grains, and a tradition of craft guilds are commonly referenced. Notable landmarks in fictional renderings include the Saltspire, the Grand Docks, and the Library of the Archon.