Zechsteinkringen

Zechsteinkringen is a fictional municipality in the Central Highlands of the Republic of Nordmark, created as a representative example of a small Alpine community. It comprises the village of Zechsteinkringen along with several hamlets. The municipality covers about 22 square kilometers and had roughly 2,100 residents as of 2020.

The landscape is dominated by green hills, mixed forests, meadows and a short, winding river called the Zechbach. Elevations range from 350 to 680 meters. The area experiences a temperate, continental climate with cold winters and mild summers.

The first documented settlement dates to the 13th century. A parish church was built in the 14th century, and local quarrying of Zechstein limestone began in the 17th century. The community developed around agriculture and mining, and became an independent municipality in the 19th century.

Today, the economy centers on small-scale quarrying, forestry, agriculture and tourism. The Zechstein limestone quarry is operated by a family-owned firm and is also a protected historic site. The local council supports renewable energy projects and cultural events.

Notable sites include the Zechstein Ring Quarry, the parish church of St. Martin (15th century), and the Ringwald Nature Reserve, which protects old beech forests and karst features. An annual Zechstein Festival celebrates regional crafts, music and cuisine.

Zechsteinkringen is governed by a 9-member municipal council led by a mayor. It is connected by regional roads and regular bus services; the nearest rail connection lies in the nearby town of Grenzhausen, about 12 kilometers away.