Tarela

Tarela is a fictional coastal city-state in the Velorian archipelago. It functions as a major maritime hub and regional capital within the Velorian Confederation. The city sits at a sheltered harbor, where stone quays and a mix of medieval and colonial-era buildings reflect its long trading history.

Founded around the 9th century by sailors of the Tareli culture, Tarela grew as a crossroads between inland valleys and island markets. It attained city-state status in the late 14th century and remained autonomous under local councils until joining the Velorian Confederation in the 19th century. The terrain includes a natural harbor, a cliff-backed old town, and surrounding terraces.

The latest census reports about 82,000 residents. The population includes Velorian speakers, Tareli communities, and immigrant neighborhoods. Governance is via an elected mayor and a 15-member city council operating under a charter, with a degree of autonomy within the confederation.

The economy centers on fishing, shipbuilding, and port trade, with growing services and tourism. Cultural life emphasizes seafood cuisine, street markets, and the annual Night of Lanterns festival. The built environment features whitewashed houses with blue trim, narrow lanes, and stone arcades that line the harbor.

Key landmarks include the Old Fortress, the Blue Gate, and the Harbor Lighthouse. Transport relies on ferries to nearby islands and a regional rail network; a small regional airport serves the area. The port authority oversees shipping, safety, and environmental protections.