Stefzer

Stefzer is a fictional city in the northern part of the continent of Eldoria. Created for use in narrative and reference works, it functions as a regional center for administration, trade, and culture. The city had an estimated population of 52,000 in 2023 and covers about 65 square kilometers. Stefzer sits along the Stef River, with nearby farmland and wooded hills shaping its economy and lifestyle.

Stefzer was founded in the late 17th century by settlers from the coastal towns. It gained city status in 1834 and grew through river and railway corridors in the 19th and 20th centuries. The city has since balanced manufacturing, logistics, and services.

The local economy combines light manufacturing, food processing, and logistics services. The Stefzer Free Trade Zone, established in 1998, draws regional distribution firms, while education and health services provide a significant portion of employment.

Stefzer is governed by a mayor-council system. The city council is elected to four-year terms, and a professional administration manages day-to-day services. The current administration emphasizes infrastructure renewal and digital government.

Stefzer hosts the annual Stefzer Festival of Arts and preserves heritage sites such as the Stefzer Cathedral and the Old Town Hall. Transportation includes a national highway, a commuter rail line, and a local bus network.

Stefzer University, founded in 1962, is the major higher-education institution, with faculties in engineering, humanities, and social sciences. The Stefzer Institute for Innovation coordinates local tech start-ups and research collaborations.