Stigueard

Stigueard is a fictional town in the highlands of the realm of Eldoria. It is often cited in encyclopedic exercises and world-building texts as an example of a small, walled settlement. The name is linked to medieval guilds and local heraldry in the lore surrounding Eldoria.

It lies on the banks of the Silverford River, at the foot of the Bladewood Ridge, and covers about 12 square kilometers. The surrounding countryside is mixed woodlands and pasture, with a temperate climate and several streams feeding the river. As of the latest compendium, the population is about 5,200 residents.

Stigueard traces its origins to the 12th century, when a carpenters' guild established a market town near a defensible bend in the river. The town received municipal rights in the 13th century and built stone walls and a castle complex by the late 14th century. It endured a major fire in 1507 and rebuilt using timber-framed houses.

Historically, timber, carpentry, and crafts have driven Stigueard's economy. In modern times it hosts small workshops producing pottery, metal goods, and architectural fittings. The town serves as a regional market center for nearby farms and timber yards, with tourism focused on its historical streets and riverfront.

Landmarks include Stigueard Castle, the Old Gate, and the Riverside Market. The town hosts an annual Harvest Tide festival featuring street markets, crafts, and a boat procession on the Silverford River.

Stigueard is governed by a mayor and a six-member town council. It forms part of the Northmarch district within the Eldorian federation, sharing regional services and representation with neighboring settlements.