alZhir

alZhir is a fictional city-state that appears in fantasy literature, tabletop role-playing games, and video games. It is commonly depicted as a coastal metropolis that serves as a hub for trade, learning, and diplomacy.

Geographically, alZhir is set on a temperate peninsula with a natural harbor, layered districts, and a fortified hill overlooking the sea. Descriptions of its urban fabric vary by source, but many depictions emphasize market halls, caravansaries, libraries, and an ornamental city center.

Governance and history are intentionally varied across works. Some portray alZhir as a mercantile republic governed by guild councils; others present a dynastic or oligarchic regime. Because it is a fictional construct used by multiple authors, there is no single canonical chronology or constitution.

Economy and society are typically diverse. The city-state is portrayed as a crossroads for merchants, scholars, artisans, and sailors, with a busy harbor and extensive warehousing. Its language and legal practices are depicted as mixed, reflecting its cosmopolitan character; currency, taxation, and trade regulations also differ by adaptation.

In fiction, alZhir serves as a stage for themes of exchange, cultural interaction, and political intrigue. Its flexible portrayal makes it a popular setting for role-playing campaigns and narrative games, though there is no universal canon among works that reference it.