Vhigianu

Vhigianu is a small municipality located in the southwestern region of the fictional country of Alveria. The settlement lies at an elevation of 532 metres above sea level, within the tranquil foothills of the Liria Mountains. According to the latest census conducted in 2021, the population of Vhigianu stands at approximately 1,420 inhabitants, a decrease of about 7 percent from the figure reported in 2011. The local economy is largely driven by small-scale agriculture, particularly the cultivation of wheat and barley, as well as cattle ranching. In recent years, there has also been a modest growth in eco-tourism, with visitors drawn to the area's traditional stone cottages and unspoiled natural trails.

The origin of the name Vhigianu is believed to derive from the ancient Alverian language, where “vhigi” refers to a “settling place” and “anu” to the “river”, reflecting the municipality’s proximity to the Vahor river. Historical records first mention Vhigianu in the 14th century, during the reign of King Aldric II. The village survived the great wildfire of 1523, a disaster that claimed much of the surrounding forest. A stone chapel erected in the 18th century, dedicated to Saint Eulalie, remains a cultural landmark and is believed to house several medieval frescoes.

Cultural life in Vhigianu retains many traditional practices. The annual Harvest Festival, held each September, attracts participants from neighboring villages to celebrate the local produce with music, dance, and communal feasting. Local artisans continue to produce handwoven linens and traditional pottery, skills that have been passed down through generations. The municipality also maintains a primary school and a community center that serves as a hub for educational and cultural events. Overall, Vhigianu exemplifies the characteristic blend of historical heritage and rural charm found throughout the Alverian countryside.