Varynn

Varynn is a coastal city and major trade hub on the western coast of the fictional continent of Valara. It serves as the capital of Varynn Province and is known for its deepwater harbor, shipyards, and diverse cultural life. The name Varynn is of Valaran origin, traditionally interpreted as referencing the harbor and the sea, though local historians debate the exact etymology.

Geographically, Varynn sits at the mouth of the Varin River, with hills to the east and a sheltered bay to the west. The climate is temperate maritime, characterized by mild winters and cool, wet summers; annual rainfall supports dense urban greenery and nearby farmlands.

Varynn grew from a fishing village into a fortified trading post in the late medieval era. It gained municipal rights in the early 13th century and later joined a regional maritime league that facilitated commerce and defense. The city expanded its shipyards in the early modern period and became a regional center for textiles and timber.

Its economy centers on shipbuilding, fishing, and light manufacturing, supplemented by a busy service sector and markets. The city hosts annual festivals, including the Lantern Festival in mid-summer, and maintains a cultural circuit with galleries, theaters, and the University of Varynn's Arts Campus.

Varynn is governed by a mayor and city council elected by residents, with an autonomous port authority overseeing harbor operations. Infrastructure includes the East Gate and Old Town, the Market Quarter, a rail link to inland cities, and the Lighthouse of Nyrren guiding ships into the harbor.

Population figures vary with time but several tens of thousands live in the urban area. The city is ethnically diverse, reflecting its status as a trade hub. Notable landmarks include the Old Town district, the Market Gate, the Library of Varynn, and the Lighthouse of Nyrren.