kortens

Kortens is a municipality in the northern Valorian region of the fictional country of Aldoria. It covers 38.5 square kilometers and had an estimated population of 7,600 in 2022. The terrain includes rolling farmland, mixed woodland, and a small river that runs along the eastern edge.

Historically, Kortens began as a market village in the 12th century and gained town rights in 1304. Its growth accelerated with the arrival of the railway in the late 19th century, and postwar development diversified its economic base from agriculture toward manufacturing and services.

Today the economy combines agriculture (dairy and cereals), light manufacturing (wood products and machinery), and services. The municipality is served by a regional rail line, a national road, and a network of local buses. A regional hospital is located nearby, providing specialized care to residents of Kortens and surrounding communities.

Kortens is governed by a mayor and a nine-member council elected every four years. The population is aging slightly, with a substantial working-age cohort and a growing share of residents from diverse backgrounds due to recent migration. The community emphasizes balancing preservation of its historic core with contemporary amenities.

Cultural life centers on the annual Kortens Festival and a well-preserved historic core, featuring the 15th-century Market Hall and St. Mary’s Church. Education comprises two primary schools and a secondary school, with higher education access available in nearby towns.